Michael had quite the sailing experience this summer in their class nationals held in "The Gorge” near Cascade Locks, OR. This area of the Columbia River is known around the world as a first class windsurfing and kiteboarding venue. Thanks to the Columbia Gorge Racing Association, who served as our race committee, this area is gaining popularity with people who still sail boats. Although Mike has been sailing with Gordon and Don since 1998, this was his first class championship regatta. After four days and seven races, the Water Boa finished in 5th place (out of 23 boats) in the 2005 Santana 20 Class Championship Regatta. The class website has the best information about the racing, conditions and results (and several photos). It was Gordon and Don’s best finish at S20 nationals since they started sailing together 30 years ago. As Mike puts it, they had a blast (pun intended) and came home bruised but excited by the experience of racing in the Gorge and their results. This was the strongest wind they had ever raced in. During the races, the wind speed averaged 20mph with gusts approaching 30. And that’s before the wind really picked up in the afternoon. The conditions challenged both sailor and equipment as each were stressed – sometimes to the breaking point.
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