September 28th, 2016
2016 Weta Nationals started out no different than last year with torrential downpours, flooded roads and wind insanity! Although, there was one exception, Randy Smyth, recent commentator for the 2016 Olympics sailing events in Rio, a two time Olympic Silver medalist and National Champion many times over was in attendance. Smyth’s chill demeanor fit right in with the rest of the fleet.
Sailors rigged in the relentless rain on day 1 even though it was blowing 40+. After a postponement, the fleet unanimously decided it was time for “beer thirty” and abandonment for the day, hoping conditions would improve throughout the week.
On day 2, the crazy wind and rain had finally passed. Guys were seen testing the waters. “Oh, what do we wear today?” With the water up about six feet compared to last year, sailors launched and sailed right from the launch ramp. The exception was Knox Rodgers, who decided to do circles in front of the ramp to prevent the rest of the fleet from launching. Where was the video camera when we needed it?
PRO, Ryan Hamm was able to start and finish five light air buoy races with John Adams from Florida getting his one and only bullet of the regatta. This is one to remember considering Smyth was in the fleet. Afterwards, everyone was famished and glad to head over to enjoy an evening of festivities at Roadside Bar & Grill for all-you-can-eat shrimp.
Day 3, winds picked up to about eight knots along with a 1-2 foot chop on the water. Four races ended with Randy in first with a string of bullets. One point separated Keith Rice and Knox Rogers for 2nd place while the rest of the fleet was firmly established in the pecking order. Since the Class Meeting was postponed, a raucous group hung out drinking free beer that evening at Nor’Banks as the sun went down.
Day 4 started out at five knots and quickly became a ”float fest” as the fleet had to get towed in. Only one race was completed crowning Randy Smyth as the 2016 Weta National Champion. Keith was able to cover Knox to finish second overall with Knox placing third. John Adams rounded out the awards with a strong fourth overall. The double handed team of Tom Tomlinson and Robert Hoffman won the double handed division.
Sailors traveled from California, New York and Florida to be back at this sailing destination once again with four newbies attending this event. Jon Britt at Nor’Banks Sailing did a great job of hosting for the second year in a row. After enjoying this chill, friendly fleet, Ryan Hamm, from Charleston SC presided over racing as our PRO and plans to be back again.
Gear up for 2017 Weta Nationals at Cascade Locks, July 28-30. This is one of the most beautiful, scenic places to sail in the United States. East Coast Wetas are already talking about shipping a container of boats and flying in for the event. This is one not to miss! Will you be there?!?
By Stephanie DeLair
Photos Jon Britt & Stephanie DeLair
