Vancouver Lake Regatta

June 7th-8th, 2008

submitted by Paul Harlan

The Vancouver Regatta is situated about half way between the two more active fleets on the west coast and therefore creates an opportunity for them to compete and socialize together. This year six boats came together from the north and the south to compete at the Vancouver Lake (WA) annual regatta June 7-8. Fleet 84 from Lake Whatcom, WA was ably represented by Steve Hood and his son Liam from the north. Fleet 57 from Coos Bay, OR was represented by Jim and Claudia Moore, Phil Van Doren, Jerry Hogue, Donna and Steve Mast and Paul Harlan. The MC’s competed as a separate start with a total of 65 boats including A-Cats, Thistles, Lasers, Fireballs, Vanguard 15’s and the Lightning’s competed in their District Championship.

The winds on Saturday started out light with some rain drizzle as forecasted. Key for the first two races was staying in wind on the windward leeward course and keeping boat speed and momentum. The lighter crew weights were rewarded along with finding the pressure. The wind was building the last two races and the crews then came in their own and were able to capitalize on the increase in power. Saturday finished with Steve Hood finding the finish first on all four of the close races through seeking pressure and staying out of the turbulence from the other boats on the lake.

Sunday was clear with very light winds. The starts were delayed repeatedly until the fleets were finally able to get off. Winds were light and the key again was finding the favored side with the wind and boat speed. Jerry Hogue came out with the win in race five going right on the final beat with some better wind and a gentle lift to break Steve Hood’s bullets. The second race made it to the second windward rounding when the wind ceased and racing was terminated by the race committee. Steve Hood with crew Liam representing Fleet 84 took home first place honors. The racing was always tight with boats in close proximity around the marks and the finish. There was movement from front to back on almost every leg making the efforts worth it as all were competitive. The group enjoyed the company, a great venue and an excellent salmon dinner on Saturday night. They are looking forward to getting together again later this summer at the Coos Bay Labor Day Regatta.