MINI AIR 2012 AROUND ISLANDS RACE START

Posted byRichard HewsonPosted inUncategorized

The wind has finally dropped off, and the swell reduced so we can finally start the Mini Air 2012 race around the islands today (Sunday) at 1100. Yesterday I was able to get out of the marina for a sail to test a few modifications on the boat, ensure the auto helm is working without any problems, and also calibrate my wind instruments which I have been unable to do since fitting the new wind wand. All these tasks I have been expecting to do in the past week but it has been far too windy to even leave the marina.

Because of the delayed start the race has now been shortened from the 300nm (Valencia – Palma – Ibiza- Valencia) and we are now sailing a 225nm course from Valencia around the island of Ibiza and back to Valencia. It will be a very interesting course with lots of light wind and strategic local conditions as we sail around Ibiza that we can all look forward to and try to get the most out of. The race can be viewed by going to http://yb.tl/air2012. I am sailing the RG 650 that is called Katabatic Racing and has a sail number of ESP 816 and hull number (Mini Transat Number) of 816.

Final briefing is at 0900 this morning, after that we will get towed out of the marina. Mobile phones and computers must be given to race officials and then we are on our own for a light wind 2-3 day race around Ibiza.

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Published by Richard Hewson

Richard Hewson is a Tasmania-based ships captain, marine surveyor, and experienced sailor with a lifelong connection to the sea. With experience in project management and vessel commissioning, he has operated and raced a wide range of vessels—from dinghies and Maxi yachts to tankers, icebreakers and research vessels. Richard has competed in major offshore events including the Sydney to Hobart, Fastnet, Middle Sea, and Transatlantic races including the Mini Transat. In 2012, he skippered the winning yacht in the Clipper Round the World Race. He has sailed to every continent and explored all corners of the world from Antarctica to south pacific atols and recently completed a three-year family voyage from the Netherlands to Tasmania. Richard holds a Master Class 1 (unrestricted), RYA Yachtmaster Ocean, Engineering (1200kw) and commercial diving certifications, and is an AMSA-accredited marine surveyor. He is also affiliated with the Australasian Institutes of Marine Surveyors and is passionate about all things that float.

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