Vento Solare is finally launched! Normally this is just a check in the box but this year a major milestone. The week prior to Easter I felt miserable and had no energy. After a couple of calls to the doctor on separate days, I went to the Emergency room at Newport Hospital on Friday and ended up spending 5 days over Easter in the ICU being treated for pneumonia. I am feeling much better now but have about a 6 week period as my energy level and lung capacity gets back to normal. Let's just say that grandpa is taking lots of naps these days.
Anyway, all this would not be possible without the help of Gardner Howe and my son-in-law Scott Moeller who spent a day at the boat wet sanding to be ready for launch.
Gardner & Scott Wet Sanding
My duties were to change out the paper and spray the hose since I didn't have the strength to do any sanding. It was a beautiful sunny day and with the well coordinated team was able to complete sanding with 320, 400 and 600 grit in three hours.
I also want to acknowledge Trevor DiMarco and Pat Tormey (with Scott & Gardner) for their help prepping the boat with me before I ended up in the hospital. Vento Solare is very ready for the season with just a few topside cosmetic tasks to be done. Plans are to find a nice day this coming week to bring Vento Solare to her slip at the Navy marina. Our first crew practice is Tuesday, April 25th. Looking forward to seeing you all and being on the water again.
Recent Comments
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.