December Midwinter Mercury sailing started with two planned regattas, one in Monterey, the second of a 4 part series, and the first of four Richmond YC Midwinters in Point Richmond.While sailors can be disappointed they couldn’t sail in Monterey on Saturday, because of 30+ knot winds forecasted, we can be thankful that the hosting MPYC decided to cancel out of concern for people’s safety and not having to make an unnecessary trip.

Dave Morris - “Event is cancelled due to likely bad weather.  There is my report!”

The first Midwinter on Sunday sported cool temps, sunshine, ebb tide, and wind from the NNW approx 5-8 knots. What is different with this regatta is that the Mercury’s are one of 12 classes participating. It has been a great venue to showcase Mercurys and there was a big response of people inquiring about the Mercury and interest in getting involved.

A unique aspect of the racing was a same start with the 110 fleet. It created some havoc as the two are not used to sailing together but was an interesting comparison by most when sailing side by side. A common comment coming from 110 sailors was that they didn’t know Mercury’s could point so high. It should be noted that some Mercury’s beat 110’s despite sail area and spinnakers.  

It should be no surprise that Scott Easom put in a solid performance in his own back yard, but the sailing was fun and pretty close often by several boat lengths. Anyone was able to jump into the drivers seat given a slip up by people in front. The common strategy was to start on starboard and flop over, then head to the geographical lift at the very top of the course.   

All in all, we were all lucky to have fine sailing conditions even though the wind dropped off in the afternoon ending sailing but still enough breeze and light to get back for a drink and meal.