|
Light winds and sunshine for more than half the regatta
|
|
|
|
| Kieler Woche - Belinda Stowell / Jenny Armstrong - Light winds and sunshine for more than half the regatta |
| KIEL, GERMANY-(30-6-2003) Light winds and sunshine for more than half the regatta?- unheard of
usually in Kiel but we had it this week. The cold, windy, rainy days were
not the dominant memory of the 2003 Kiel week but the long days of 8 hours
on the water were the same.
Our course is a 1.5 hour sail from the harbour, across the channel where we
negotiate our way past ships, ferries and most commonly, old tall - ships
with German tourists waving to anyone.
We were happy with our performance this week, finishing 4th in a light wind
regatta. We
saw new faces on the podium, with a new German team winning. With good
starts we were in the top bunch around the top mark in most races. We are
happy with our equipment now and our work in Australia seems to be paying
off again. All those days sailing in the pouring rain, with our eyes peeled
for the next gust of wind were sure to be put to good use.
We had 4 races a day, which is one more than usual, and two more per day
than at the Olympics. We were about to start the 4th race at 6.23 pm, and
Jen reckoned we were just starting the night shift! It is amusing getting
back to shore after 9pm, and trying to work out what to do next after
packing up. It is a juggle between sleep or food or shower. Usually the
stomach wins.
We are now off to the Europeans in Brest, France, which doubles up as our
second Nomination regatta for the Olympics. It is a two day drive so we
will be having our days off the water in the car. This is pretty normal for
life on the circuit, except for the Greek team who fly to all events and
there is a driver employed by the Federation to deal with the rest! We get
to see more of Europe though - out the car window but we do see it!
Thanks again for all the support,
Fair winds and smooth sailing!
Belinda and Jenny
www.sailinggirls.com.au
|
Source: Belinda and Jenny |
