|
Best day
All the days were good, except Wednesday and Thursday. After a slightly bittersweet Swan 45 World Championship in July, where we ended up 4th after struggling in lighter winds, we set up WISC a bit differently for Cowes Week. With the regular crew on board, including Andy Oliver, Pondy (Paul Grant), Jerry Eplett, Elvstrom Sobstad’s Kevin Sproul, navigator Titch Blachford and tactics Tim Powell, we were very quick in all conditions.
Worst day
Thursday. The Farr 45 Henri-Lloyd managed
to close up to WISC owing to the two-discard system that probably now should be changed. Two discards in a premier regatta could allow a boat that is less well sailed to win the class
if worst races are discarded. The game is all about consistency and avoiding disasters.
Top tips for winning
Team work, navigation and communication, good tactics, a fast boat and lots of confidence.
Biggest error
None. We had an almost perfect week.
Luck or judgement?
Five per cent luck and 95 per cent judgement.
Most important pre-race prep
We had already won the Big Boat Series, Swan 45 Class in the Vice Admiral’s Cup and finished 4th in the Swan 45 Worlds, so we were well prepared, having started training on 17 March. The key element of our prep was a tuned boat and well-rehearsed and motivated crew.
Favourite conditions
Either fully developed sea breeze 18+ knots
or eight knots and flat water.
Racing/social balance
For the first time I rented two crew houses, which allowed us to have family guests in addition to the team on WISC. My wife Ina
had a very enjoyable week – the Royal Yacht Squadron Ball, the fireworks, etc.
| 
