2011 Dixie District Championship

This years Dixie District Championship was held by Fleet 192 and Havre de Grace YC in scenic Havre de Grace, MD on the confluence of the Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay. Despite the economic conditions and gas prices, 19 boats raced in mostly sunny and warm conditions over both days. A newly revitalized fleet 192 with fresh boats and blood was anxious to host a fun, competitive regatta.

The first days racing found good wind…until the boats approached the first mark and the wind diminished. Thereafter the boats struggled around the course that was shortened to three legs. For the remainder of the series save for one five leg-er we sailed 4 leg windward-leewards. Boats struggled on all sides of the course to grasp the brief winds and positions changed greatly. The Constants team was able to develop a big lead before the wind died and won handily.

With the wind having died, the RC brought the fleet to shore to await a hoped for later breeze. As often happens, further racing was canceled after a postponement only to later have a tantalizingly beautiful wind arise to cool off the party and dinner which was replete with radio controlled sailboats, the usual libations and an excellent creole dinner. For many the party continued with a haphazard red rover and flip cup game that demonstrated how silly we sailors can become off the water.

The next day the racing began earlier and took advantage of light but somewhat steady breezes out of the southeast. The RC boat was determined to use the allotted time to get competitors a complete day of racing and 5 races were enjoyed with 4 different competitors (Prior, Phelan, Werner x 2, Constants) winning races. In the last few races the points were tight between Constants and Werner for the perpetual trophy and Dixie Champion bragging rights, but Constants extinguished any hope by nailing his second bullet of the regatta. Kudos to the leaders insofar as their finishes didn’t reflect the struggles on the course as many races saw them struggle back from mid fleet.

Many thanks to the RC Pro Lynda Corrado and her crew for dealing with the challenging conditions (and providing some “flag” entertainment). Also to Havre de Grace YC and Tidewater Marina for supporting the local lightning fleet. We hope to see you all in August for the “Duck Challenge” Regatta.

Pat Phelan