Monday August 16, 2004 (sorry, no pictures...) but we should have lots tomorrow!

 Betsy Alison gave the group another chalk talk about, boat handling and sail trim. The group rigged the boats and headed for the morning for drills, in light to variable conditions.

 Lunch was served on shore at the club, then back on the water for two practice races. The “you don’t win a practice race” prevailed and scores were not kept. But for sure, the teams are sharpening their skills and the series should be quite an event. The first race was a sold ten mph, giving the kids an idea of what a Lightning can do.

 Forecast:
.TUESDAY...SOUTH WIND 5 TO 10 KNOTS. WAVES AROUND 1 FOOT.
.TUESDAY NIGHT...SOUTH WIND 5 TO 10 KNOTS. WAVES AROUND 1 FOOT.
.WEDNESDAY...SOUTH WIND 15 TO 25 KNOTS. WAVES 2 TO 5 FEET. CHANCE OF SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE AFTERNOON.  VISIBILITIES REDUCED
TO 3 MILES IN ANY SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS.

.James Unsworth, skipper Area A, when asked about Betsy Alison said, "Her input into my sailing abilities was phenomenal. She help me with trimming my mainsail and that even in light winds the outhaul should be tight. She's terrific."

Ted Hale, skipper Area C when asked about the evenings entertainment, We got our "2004 Sears Cup Paint Ball Challenge" outfits, jumped into vans and played paint ball and ate cheese burgers…. According to Ted, it was good relief from the stress of such a big regatta.

Tomorrow is the first day of racing!