Racing at Dataw

While waiting to depart from North Carolina we entered a race. Gail and Kia joined us for the CAptain's party andf dinner at the Dataw Marina. Due to Hurricaine Sandy, the race was delayed for a day.

But, on a nice windy Sunday of mostly 15-20 knot winds, we raced in the Dataw Marina Cup Race. It is a 22 mile race up the Coosaw River to St. Helena Sound and back down the Morgan Creek to the Dataw Marina. We had friends Kia and Gail crew with us and also new friend, Scott, who owns a Hylas 54 and has raced many times.  What a wonderful day! The start was a little scarey since there were 22 boats milling around in the middle of the intercoastal waterway, with cruisers trying to get past. We had a problem raising our mainsail, which took a lot of time and a lot of yanking, but finally rose to the occasion. The race itself was wonderful fun and Wind Dancer made herself proud as the second boat to cross the finish line.  Our overall finish was handicapped as a fifth place, but we are sure it is because our PRPH was incorrect. What? You've heard that story before? Well, we were given a 129 even though the boat ia loaded down as a cruiser with a furling main and bow thruster, airconditioning system, etc. We did get a nice silver dish out of the race and sliding across the line in second place has its own thrill.





See all those boats? They are behind us.