The YAI Multiclass Regatta started full swing, with the opening ceremony at 17.30hrs on May 16 at the INWTC ( Indian Naval Watermanship Training Center - Mumbai).The who's who of sailing were there, including the 150 odd participants from all over the country. The highlight of the evening was most definitely the Russian dancer who performed 3 different styles of dancing. She certainly caught every man’s undivided attention! The various categories of boats participating at this regatta are the Hobie 16, 420, 470, Optimist, Laser Full rig, Laser Radial and Laser 4.7. I am participating in the Laser Radial Class. There are 3 women taking part ( 2 from Chennai and 1 from Hyderabad) and a total of 21 boats.
The races started today at 11am. The winds were light and shifty with a strong tidal influence. I had a good start and managed to finish 2nd behind veteran sailor Rajesh Choudhury ( two time Asian Games bronze medalist). The hour long 2nd race had similar light wind conditions, but I made a mistake going to the wrong side and dropped from 3rd to 5th position. Mrinalini S (Chennai) managed to get a lucky shift to finish 4th, just ahead of me. These were difficult conditions, and required a lot of concentration.
We broke for lunch and resumed racing at 15:30 hrs. This time the wind had picked up to about 12-15 knots and shifty. I had a terrible start and spent the entire race trying to catch up. I just managed to finish in the top 10. The 4th race was an action replay of the previous one, finishing 7th! I have 3 races tomorrow starting at 11 am. Hopefully I will be able to redeem my position in the top 3. Rajesh Choudury won all the races. It will be tough, but I’m optimistic. I know I can beat him. Here’s to fair winds!
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