There were 11 boats racing on the Oakland Estuary for the second installment of the 20 race NORCAL series. Race Officer Aaron Lee did an excellent job of navigating through a very busy Saturday on the waters off EYC.
The 5 race day was sailed in light, 6-8 knot winds, but as is normal for the estuary the stiffs caused the lead to change many times both upwind and down. The first race was abruptly stopped at the windward mark when a disgruntled rowing crew coach sank our leeward mark. A new mark was set and the rest of the races went off without incident. John Hansen with crew Tony Basso continued their winning ways with two more first place finishes. John Ravizza with son Mike as crew won their first race of the series then strung together three thirds for a very solid day. Jim and Kathy Bradley came close to taking the regatta from Hansen but they fell short by one point after the throw out. After missing the first weekend we were happy to see past national champion Chris Gould with son Chris out on the race course. Mike Trela and crew Matt Tran along with Paul Muelle and crew Mike Bilafer were also joining in the fun.
The beautiful Carmiggelt trophy, full model of a Mercury, goes home with John Hansen of EYC. With this win he now has a 12 point lead in the NORCAL series over the Bradleys with 10 more races to go.
A total of 14 boats are racing this year’s NORCAL series. Next installment is May 14th.