The standings tell the story, but not the whole story. It's easy to see Velvet Hammer at the top of the standings, Azure dominating her hard-fought division, and double-handers Accelerando and Moonshine topping their respective divisions, for example. However, the real story can be read in our participants' faces on shore.
Tired, happy, windblown, sunburned, and in some cases bruised, these faces tell almost 400 stories of individual effort to get across the wide Pacific to Hawaii. First-time crossers are quite justifiably proud and awed by their new accomplishment. Veteran racers may be reviewing what they (or the race committee) should have done differently.
With the heavy sustained winds for most of the race, the damage count appeared considerably higher than prior races. Spinnakers, poles, halyards, and even forestays fell prey to the steady pressure, to say nothing of the steering challenges. "I was humbled and impressed by our racers' handling of the challenges they encountered offshore, and was extremely pleased to be able to welcome them to Kaneohe without significant injuries," said PCYC Commodore Hawkeye King.
The first major arrival party, the traditional Luau with hula show, took place Wednesday to a sold-out house. Strategic discussions continued at and across tables over maitais. As a bit of comic relief, Commodore King was dragged onto the stage to attempt a hip-shaking tamoure dance. Unlike many who are subjected to this tourist staple, Hawkeye slayed it!
Tonight... GOSLINGS Rum party with hats, of course. Tomorrow, Awards.