Actual weather experienced by the fleet in the 2013-14 Latitude Ocean race has been spot on compared to the BOM forecast which makes the job for Race Management to determine whether to amend the designated set of latitudes to send the fleet to, a little easier. Race Managements decision to extend the course from Set 3 to Set 4 is proving to be a good move as all yachts have turned at their designated Rounding Latitudes within 30 minutes of desired times. Timing the tides at the heads is an important focus for Race Management. The race started at Queenscliff just before Slack Water at the Heads turning to Ebb tide. The next Slack Water at the Heads turning to Flood tide is at 1347 this afternoon. So the ideal time we want yachts back in the Heads is from 1347 onwards. If yachts arrive earlier than that they will experience 15-20 knot SW winds against and Ebb tide which can make the sea state unpleasant. After 1347 they will have wind aft of abeam and tidal assistance given them a sling shot back into the Bay. Time will tell. The wind is building a little as forecast, so the fleet is enjoying glorious down wind conditions on their return leg. --NR
Posted on: Sat, 23 Nov 2013 01:10:53 +0000
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