The number of Lasers sailing at MSC is rising, and looks set to rise further, so we thought it would be interesting and fun to take up the challenge of the Laser Inlands at Rutland on 25th – 26th October. We sailed in different fleets: Dan in the Radial (with 103 others) and David in Standard rig (with 43 others); with the 4.7s, there were nearly 180 Lasers on the water, sailing off the same line but with inner and outer loops to keep us reasonably separate.
It was windy! Finding a good slot on the line had to be balanced against getting clear air and staying out of trouble. Loads of boats capsized (including us) in the strong gusts. It was impressive to see the leaders sailing radical angles downwind, including by the lee, to take advantage of shifts and the waves that had built up at the bottom end of the enormous reservoir.
The weekend was exhausting, but we learnt a lot and could clearly see the difference between the top sailors and club racers. We’re looking forward to the next chance!
David and Daniel Nickalls