Ghost Hand

A little break in our wintery weather yesterday inspired me to launch the dinghy. Just about the time I would have liked to sail, however, a couple of 25+ knot gusts held me back. As my time window closed (I was due to pick up the girls from school), I decided to put the boat away and was thankful for the chance to go through the process of launching after 3 1/2 months of winter non-sailing. I don't think the flies and spiders that took up residency in my sail were happy about my choice, though.

I ran up the ramp to get the pickup and trailer ready. As I was heading back down the ramp I could see my mast over the clubhouse and it was moving slowly down the dock. There were a couple of college sailors hanging out on the dock, just near the boat, so I assumed they were moving it down for some reason.

There was also an instructor standing steps away from my boat and I could see him. Since he wasn't reacting, I assumed all was well.

As the boat moved, it was picking up speed.

I decided to step up my pace, too.

L & C is designed to handle four adults comfortably and sails great with a crew of three, two on the jibsheets and centerboard, while someone handles the mainsheet and tiller. I've sailed it a few times with just two and she does great. I've also sailed her many times singlehanded and found her pretty easy to handle alone.

Today I took it to a new level.

Fortunately, the instructor was able to run in and radio the club whaler that was out setting course marks. They towed my wayward dinghy back to the dock and I put her away.

First sail of the new year ... sorta.