04/29 DCCB, 6M sail, 117L board

[JimSouthwick]

Surprise session. SW wind started at 11 and became noticeable about 11:30. George was rigging a 7.5 when I arrived, which seemed like a reasonable call in view of the readings I was seeing on the wind meter (low teens with occasional gusts to 20) so I did the same. Upon his return from his first reach, George reported that the 7.5 was a handful and that he was going to go down to a 6.6. I took one trip out and back and concluded that he was absolutely right. George rigged a 6.6, which also proved to be a bit too much, so I put on a 6.0, which worked well - maxed, but never really overpowered. As always at DC, the wind came and went, but at least the gusts were fairly prolonged. George and I both quit before the wind did. A keeper!

Water temp: 52 F

Take home lesson: the beach at Charleston Bridge is surprisingly well sheltered from the wind, so wind meter readings aren't helpful as a guide to sail size.

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[Leo Chan]

Jim, how shallow is the CB area? I like the area. If it is shallow enough, I might be able to teach my friend to sail there.

[JimSouthwick]

Leo,

Charleston Bridge is not, in my opinion, a very good teaching spot. There are shallow spots, but the depth is not consistent, and the "walk of shame" can be quite tedious due to the proximity of the river mouth.

[Leo Chan]

I see. Thanks!