Cape Mudge near Campbell River
June 18, 2007 - Campbell River - Leg three of the Cadillac Van Isle 360 started off the Comox bar in a light northwest breeze.
While Flattery was the first boat over the start line, it was the Cookson 40, White Cloud who got the best start. They opted for clean air near the committee boat end of the line and port tacked the fleet to take an early lead.
The little 25 foot trimaran, Makika and the 74 foot aluminum boat Atalanta engaged in a short tacking duel with Makika forcing Atalanta to tack away.
HMCS Oriole launched their enormous spinnaker hoping to reach across behind the fleet but ended up with the chute fouled on deck.
Shortly after the start the breeze clocked to the south east and built to 15+ knots bringing the entire fleet into Campbell River under Spinnaker in spectacular fashion. The ID 48, Flash (Steve Travis), was the first boat to cross the finish line at 1228 hrs. followed by Capricorno and Icon.
The 6 knot positive current at the finish line made making the mark challenging for many boats. Atalanta was swept past the mark and spent the next 30 minutes or so trying to make their way back against the wind and current.
HMCS Oriole impressed the crowd lining the fishing pier, by relaunching their monster spinnaker as they crossed the finish receiving a huge round of applause.
Today's winners were
Div 1. Flash, Capriocorno, White Cloud
Div 2. Absolute Kaos, Merlin, Mad Max
Div 3 Tryst, Betty Boop, Promises
Div 4 Blue Lightning, Dan Gereaus, Makika
Overall divisional winners in the race after three legs are - Capricorno (Pat Dion), Absolute Kaos (Reigh North), Tryst (Stuart Farrell) and Blue Lightning (Mark Gumley).
The Pier Street Association in Campbell River put on a fantastic welcome reception for the sailors, with a beer gardens, music and craft fair held at the Heritage Maritime Museum.
Spiny Norman and Red Heather
Makika shows us how to bring in a spinnaker
Stuart Farrell of Tryst (L) accepts the first place flag for Div. 3. Richard Ackril from Betty Boop (center) placed secod and Bob Hamilton of Promises (R) placed Third
