Dandelion 108

 

The blindfolded paddlers bend to their task. Shoreside encouragement is bellowed across the water. A sighted cox, seated in the sternsheets of each boat, shouts directions. Spectating crews add to the cacophany, with their roars of mirth.

The pupils of Greig (inner) City Academy are here. With their 'rescue' eighties Admirals Cupper, Scaramouche. Famous for their 'against the (social) odds' Fastnet entry, back in 2017. Now an established fixture on the youth sailing scene.

Along with the massed ASTO (Association of Sail Training Organisations) fleet. For an overnight race, from Guernsey to Poole. Starting on Tuesday afternoon.

 At least half of each competing crew, must be below twenty five years old. Hence the in harbour high jinks, with the tenders. Enjoyed by children of all ages.

The forecasts (currently) show a continuation of today's summer zephyrs and bright sunshine, for their Channel crossing. Although these predictions are more changeable, than usual, due to Hurricane Debby's disruption of the jet stream.

There is, however, a growing consensus that, from around the nineteenth, a week of south westerly gales is likely. Stargazer's plan is to sail as the breeze begins to build. Arriving beneath the lee, of Anvil Point, twelve hours before it pipes up to full strength.