Hebe Jebes Sep/Oct 2014 | Page 30

FEATURES At the end of Day 1, the Dragons already had big smiles on their faces with a provisional result on their side. HHYC was at the top of each class! The BBQ party would start at the Miramar restaurant next door to the hotel. Tables were set up outside with a giant BBQ as well—of course—as the traditional beers and Portuguese wines! Sadly the evening ended quickly because of the heavy rain but it was too early to say goodbye. An informal after party was held in the bar of the Westin with all the Hebe parents and some from RHKYC and ABC. All the youngest sailors had also their after party in Max Turner’s room while the older ones went to some other places. Features On Sunday morning, a thunderstorm warning was hoisted and all were worried about whether or not extra races would be held. Luckily, the Race Officer authorised the boats to be launched on time upon the cancellation of the warning. Sailors were very excited with the strong wind and strong swells. Light rain was not an issue and three races were completed with a lot of action on the water. In the Pico division, Ian and Pey showed their strength by winning all the 1st place positions and, in the Optimist division, leadership switched between Arthur, Jasmine and Nicolle, leaving no chance to the other sailors. The second day was not in Antonio and Nathan’s favour, with some issues with their spinnaker and later on a broken part which forced them to go back on shore for a quick repair. They therefore caught up very quickly in the following races and tried to gain extra speed with a different technique of hike out! For the Laser and Pico division, the Mihan sisters showed their experience by also winning most of the races while, in Laser, William competed a perfect regatta with five pole positions! For the whole team, they were perfect sailing conditions and the races were thoroughly enjoyed. The ambiance on and off the water was exceptional. On the way back to the beach, the mood was excellent as sailors anticipated some very good overall results. After cleaning and tidying their boats, all nineteen sailors were in full SLAM uniforms alongside their parents for the prizegiving which was held under the sun! 28 Hebe jebes • Sept/Oct 2014 29