Just wanted to let you all know, CaryOn did her first “Real” race yesterday (Saturday 08/08/20). This is only her second time out sailing in well over 8+ years of re-fitting.
My son “Cary” and his wonderful Lighting sailor bride (Lindsey) double-handed, in JAM, our 32-II to a 1st in class and 2nd Overall. ...It was Lindsey’s first time on a “bigger boat” with a wheel instead of a tiller as well as being on CaryOn! ...Seems CaryOn and Lindsey bonded instantly as true sisters as Lindsey grew comfortable with a wheel in very short order.
Cary helped with some wise words of wisdom, “She’s bigger than a Lightning - so pretend your simply driving a Winnebago.” Sure enough, the “Snake Wake” straightened out in short order and Lindsey began to feel CaryOn talking softly back to her fingers on the wheel.
In spite of a roller furling Hood headsail at age 18+ and a closely aged old tape drive Mylar main - CaryOn actually still out pointed the competition and finished 2 & 1/2 minutes ahead (uncorrected handicap time) ahead of her 2nd place competition - a VERY capable sailor great friend with a well equipped and Bristol condition Tartan 30.
(Not too shabby for now an almost 48 year old boat! ...But then too, she IS an Ericson!)
In my now aging years, the racing is still fun but I dearly LOVE my cruising sunsets at anchor with wine, cheese, crackers and good friends. ...Regardless, it’s great to have such a boat that serves my racer son (and Lindsey) so well along with my own bride of 40 years and I with friends so comfortably!