Richie Lord

Very light variable wind so no racing but we managed to sail out to Penrhos markto enjoy the eclipse. A fantastic evening

A windy forecast with strong gusts. Course 2 was selected. 2 reefs and a 2/3 jib.

Day sail 2026-06-20 Crew today: Mark Michael Henrie Richie Following a lengthy but unsuccessful attempt to sport out the steaming light and deck light on the mast it was decided that we should go for a sail up to the coast near Porth Y Bribys. Michael was given the helm after we checked with Port Control that we were clear to sail across the TSZ to Clipera. The wind was light SW and the sea state was calm. Gradually as we approached Porth Y Bribys the wind was dying away and the ebb tide had run for an hour or so. We had time, under these conditions, to discuss with the crew our sail settings and theory on adjustments. Once close to the shore we hove too and set up the swim deck for Harri to go for a swim. During the period she was in the water we had travelled sideways for around 180m. Once Harri was back on board we turned to sail back to the harbour but there was so little wind now that we had to motor sail. As we approached Clipera we called port control to ask for clearance and continued on our passage into the New Harbour and onto our mooring. Kim, on the launch, collected us and then picked up the crew of a visiting yacht from Conwy and I had a drink with them in the clubhouse giving them as much information as I could about the benefits of sailing out of Holyhead.

For preparation for racing on board for 17:15 with Eric. Remainder of the crew arrived in good time so we left the mooring before 18:00 to familiarise the crew, sailing off on the main. At the 5 minute warning we unfurled the jib carefully planning our approach to the start line. Flair crossed the start line about 7 seconds late on the downwind leg but soon was leading the field out of the New Harbour. Race officer Dawn had set course 1 which gave us a long downwind leg around the end of the breakwater then a tight reach to Penrhos, a broad reach to Clipera and a windward leg back to the finish. On the leg from Penrhos we were informed that the James Joyce ferry would be departing in 15 minutes and the Stenna ferry was inbound shortly after. We notified Port Control of our intention to cross the TSZ before the ferry movements and were given clearance. A great evening sail with FlairIV first over the line by a long way!