DN and Opti Centrals

[Daniel Hearn]

Many thanks to the Grand Traverse Ice Yacht Club for hosting the events.  As always the hospitality was second to none: live band, great chili, hats for all the kids (special thanks to you, Bill B.), exceptionally well run.  Thanks to Eric Lind, PRO, and Loretta Rehe, Chief Scorer for their always excellent job.  With conditions deteriorating rapidly, they quickly got off the races.  Thanks to Rich Potcova for calling on the event and coordinating all the equipment and resources.  And thanks to Sara DeClercq and Ron Sherry for all their work on the Ice Opti Event.

This was the first regional championship that included an Ice Opti Fleet in rotation with both Gold and Silver DN Fleets.  Course was the same, except the Ice Optis windward mark was about 1/2 the distance.  This format worked exceptionally well both for the adults and the kids.  Way to go Central Region for showing that it can be done...and done well! This format will be critical for continuing the great Junior program momentum gained in the 08/09 racing season.  Will look forward to even more progress in 09/10.

Daniel Hearn
US5352 

[rpotcova]

The kids were certainly the hit of the regatta and as long as they continue to sail Optis we will have a start for them at the Central Regionals!  We were pretty sure that incorporating the big kids and little kids on one race course would work but until it was done who really knew.  Eric Lind and Loretta Rehe did a great job keeping the fleets moving. Thanks to all at the GTIYC to make everyone feel welcome.  What a great weekend and thanks to everyone who participated.

Rich Potcova
DN 216