Century Club: George Hernandez

The previous day with gusty winds entering the marina, I could see it would be a struggle backing in. Just reounding the corner past the seawall the winds grabbed the bow and we were headed towards it. This day was to get the boat turned around. Of course, just like with the airplane where moving the plane necessitated once around the pattern, I have to go out and motor around for a bit.

First of a 2 day event. Out in the Hampton Yacht Club skiff as the Mark Boat. Quite breezy with SW winds approaching 20 knots making for a bumpy time at anchor. Thunderstorms delayed then cancelled the second day of racing.

Southwest winds of 10-15 knots made for some great sailing. First out into the bay then west and around the Hampton Bar. At times the wind picked up and for a half hour or so to keep things relaxing, I put in the first reef. 

Originally the plan was to sail somewhere for the night but the wind was forecast increase during the night to near 30. At one point I sailed up the Hampton River and dropped anchor. I only stayed there about 30 minutes before deciding to return to my marina for the night. I'm used to anchoring in quiet places with lots of room. With the limited space I didn't feel comfortable letting out a lot of anchor line and if I dragged during the winds at night shallow water was not far away.

Slow start to the year, but sailing weather is finally here. 

Sailed north to Buckroe Beach before making a pass back through Mill Creek then over to Willoughby Bay. A pleasant warm day, but a layer of cirrus moved in late afternoon cutting sunlight and making the NE breeze feel quite cool. In spite of a forecasted low around 50 it was a pleasant night anchored out.