The first course of 2017 was heralded with exceptional conditions on the 5th with sunny yet freezing conditions.
Freezing pontoons were a major hazard and getting the boat ready for sea was an extra challenge in the icy conditions.
But it was worth it. Sun, smooth seas and negligible wind made for perfect training conditions.
Chris enjoyed his premium 1:1 training and barely noticed the cold.
Close quarter manoeuvres in Cardiff Bay were undertaken with a hint of warmth from the sun. We were joined by an old gaff rigged sailing vessel and one plucky motor cruiser who came over to Mermaid Quay for a winter run.
Our second day was a passage from Cardiff to South Cardiff South Cardinal then a sharp turn to port for Monkstone Island then to North Cardiff for a run home. The conditions on the Friday could not possibly be as good as the Thursday, but a coastal passage with what seemed to be the whole of the Bristol Channel to ourselves was a great thrill. Chris, again in his element demonstrated his ability to pick up a man overboard several times prior to the passage was rewarded with a 15Nm passage then a run for the barrage before dark.
Having covered 20Nm over two days this was a great way to bring in the New Year!