Team Paradise St. Pete
The past month has been an active one.
Equipment Preparation
It is always advantageous to have 2 boats for training, but we can’t take full advantage of the situation if the boats are not equal. While training with both boats, we noticed that one was not consistent. We spend quite some time getting SKUD 004 up to speed and the way we like it for the regattas earlier in the year. Over the past month, JP did much of the work to get 001 equivalent to 004. Lines have been replaced, the seating system improved and repaired, direct steering installed and systems checked. After sailing this week, we are confident that we have two boats that are as equal as we can get them. Now, we can really use the tools to a greater extent!
On the Water Training
Due to Jen’s crazy travel schedule, we had some sporadic training sessions. We need time in the boat so any time we were both in town then we were on the water. The focus of these sessions has been to work on issues that were highlighted during the winter racing session and training camps. We have been working to improve time, speed and distance, lee bow techniques, mark roundings and downwind sailing. The velocitek has been a great resource for us as well as local talent such as Dr. John Jennings, Phil Smithies and Lin Robson from North Sails. (Attached is a photo sailing in 001)
Fun Time on the Water
JP and Jen not only race together but also against each other. It helps us learn, keep our competitive edge and the fun-factor high. We have been racing on Friday evenings summer series in Sonars. On May 8th, we also races Sonars in the Annual Couples Race. We teamed up with our respective spouses; JP raced with Diane and Jen raced with Tim. Team JP & Diane smoked the fleet coming in first. (Attached is a photo of them). On May 14th, Jen teamed up with Diane and two other female sailors to race in the Florida Women’s Sailing Association Championship. Having never sailed together prior to the event, we finished second overall. (attached is a photo). These were fun and casual events.
Upcoming Competition
The Robie Pierce regatta is June 4-6 and Team Paradise St. Pete will be represented by JP and Jen with AB Tim. We will be racing Ideal 18s in Larchmont, NY.