Failure to Launch: Sandy Delays Pole up

We pause, as this weekend is better served without FBG's pole up. It's our first hurricane at the club, thanks Sandy. After a review of the club's hurricane guide, I tended to the lines as instructed. There was a party-like atmosphere on the docks with everyone taking their precautions and pausing for a cocktail. Hopefully the storm will be uneventful as we prepare for the worse, hope for the best and not to see the kind of damage the tornado delivered.

Good luck to everyone up and down the coast as we hunker down in preparation for Sandy's visit!  

Most lot of the pole prep is completed. I had some good luck running the halyards as all but one of my messenger lines were pulled out over the 3 years the mast sat unattended. One by one I got them with the lawnmower. I thought I had gotten all of them but found a lone jib messenger line still in. Some back and forth with additional messenger lines, surgical work with the "the claw" and I had all halyards and the topping lift installed. Sweet! All that remains is a new steaming light and running it's power wire. (Yes I have a messenger run for it.)

The thru-bar was moving along until the Sandy storm prep work stoppage hit. I did manage to get the stainless steel plates riveted to the mast. If I can get on it today, I intend to cut out the slot for the thru-bar and mount the spreaders. Also, run by West Marine and pick up a steaming light to install. I'll let you know what I think of the Perko Product. I am thinking, the lightest light. The weight aloft adds up quick. Just like the decision for forgo wind instruments aloft, I want to keep as little weight aloft as possible to keep us flat and fast.

Another great Thursday evening for team racing. The close boat action and near constant sailing rules application, made for a highly efficient learning experience. It is also been good to get in some tiller and sail trim time. While the strategy is different than fleet racing much of the tactics are compatible  I have been racing along the curve and can not believe how much I have learned in 3 weeks. Next week is our final for the season and I am sad to see the season end but excited for the clubs programs with the sonars. I hope to get more involved.

The wind is picking up so I better get to work. Rigging and new sails have been ordered so damn the hurricane and full speed ahead! 

See you on the other side. FBG in 2012!