Vento Solare 2020 preparations are progressing well through the coronavirus pandemic. Bill was safe with a Tyvec suit and full face respirator sanding and painting the bottom. On Friday 20 March, the work team of Erin & Gardner Howe with Mike & Cheryl Marrone practiced safe distancing as everyone maintained 10 foot separation to wax the hull.
While Erin, Cheryl & Mike waxed the hull, Gardner and Bill worked topside. The topside gelcoat was waxed, and safety equipment installed on the rail. The boat cover was removed and ready for topside pressure wash when the water is turned on.
Bill & Mary will wet sand the bottom the week of 23-27 March which should allow Vento Solare to be launched. After launch the boat will be setup for IRC/ORC measurement which requires being weighed and inclining tests.
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Great time on the water today and after at the CYC awards party. Third place finish in a class with 11 boats.
These pictures taken by Block Island Steve after the start of the Ida Lewis Distance Race.
Henry & Matt Trimming
Henry Trimming
Elena Trimming
The 2025 ILDR was a light air challenge for the Vento Solare crew. Pia, Elena & Henry made up 50% of the crew to qualify as a youth entry. They were joined by Peter, Matt & Bill. The crew was recognized at the awards ceremony with the 1st place Youth trophy and 3rd of 8 in the Coronet class.
Youth Trophy 1st place presented to Vento Solare crew
3rd of 8 boats in Coronet class
Tristan Mouligne captured this picture from the Class 40 Res Potentia on Saturday morning. Vento Solare is limping into Newport with the spinnaker wrapped around the headstay. This occurred when a letterbox douse was attempted the evening before while trying to round R32 off Gay Head, Marthas Vineyard. The spinnaker became badly wrapped around the headstay and jib while unfurling the jib for a letterbox douse. Sarah was hoisted up the mast 1/3 of the way in the dark to try and unwrap the spinnaker but was unsuccessful. Thus the decision was made to retire and motor back to Newport. We tied up to a mooring at Coasters Harbor and hoisted Sarah to the top. The spinnaker head was fouled under the headstay and caught on the upper swivel, preventing the furler from moving in either direction. Sarah disconnected the spinnaker halyard and was able to unwrap the spinnaker. Once that was done we were able to unwind the rest of the spinnaker without damage, and completely unfurl, then refurl the jib.
Lisa flying the spinnaker on delivery to Tiverton
Fantastic weather for a spin run up the bay, followed by dinner at the Boathouse with Lisa, Francis, Pat, Cindy & Bill. The boat is all set for the race Saturday.