Happy Thanksgiving from the NEIYA!
![after+turkey-skate[1]](https://neiya.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/afterturkey-skate1.jpg)
Happy Thanksgiving! Enjoy your Thanksgiving Day with friends and family and give thanks for all that you have.
Thanksgiving is a special time for so many reasons. A time when our warm weather dreams morph into Hard Black Ice. There will be sailing soon…
If you haven’t yet, it’s time to get ready. Haul out the gear from the cellar, the back of the garage or hidden about the house. Make it a check out your gear weekend.
Don’t forget next week our annual off ice tune-up.
Sat. Dec. 5th | Arthur C. Lamb Co | 85 Jackson St, Canton, MA 02021 | 11:00 – 3:00 pm Details
This year we are featuring, thanks Eric, runner stoning aka how to keep your runners sharp throughout the season. We will have a limited number of polishing stones for sale at the tune-up email me for details. Please remember, this year we will not be running grinders. If you have a need for some serious grinding please reach out to me or other club leaders for help in getting this done.
Thanks and safe travels this holiday weekend and through our ice boating season,
John Stanton
NEIYA Vice Commodore
DN 5023
john@neiya.org
P.S. Don’t let your bird skate away…
Look Back While Looking Forward to 2016 Season
As we build, fix, tune, repair, wait and endlessly stare at long range weather forecasts for the upcoming season, let’s take a look back at some classic NEIYA ice boating.
There are hard copies of this video floating around one past into the NEIYA archives at the annual meeting. An image file of the DVD, for you, to burn your own here. If you have no idea what i’m talking about reach out and I will see what I can do to put a hard copy in your hands.
2015 Lamb Tune-up Saturday December 5th
As mentioned at our annual meeting. The 2015 Tune-up session is on for Saturday December 5th.
Date: December 5th
Time: 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Location: Arthur C. Lamb Company Refreshments: Served continuously throughout the day
Planned learning sessions include.
- Runner Stoning aka after grind care – presented by Eric Anderson
- Ice Safety / Right of Way Rules Review – presenter TBD
- Improve Skills, Safety and Enjoyment through racing – presented by Greg Cornelius
- Alignment Demonstration – presented by Bob Haag
- Boat Survey – We have two ice boats ready to come back onto the ice after a few years storage. Time to give them a once over before that first sail – presented by John Stanton and the cast at hand. If you have a barn boat and need someone to give it the once over before sailing again, bring it along but please contact me at john@neiya.org first.
Looking forward to getting together setting up a few boats and learning a thing or two. We may have some extra stones for sale let me know if interested.
Please note, in order to help focus on learning and knowledge transfer, there will be no runner grinding this year. If you need help with sharpening ask about options turning the tune-up or reach out and we find a way to get it done before first ice.
Ready your gear the ice is near,
John Stanton
DN 5023
John@neiya.org
2015 National Iceboat Authority Racing Rules Change Summary
Our regional IDNIYRA representative Chad Atkins passed this on for all to read. This and other racing information will be available as a permanent link on the right of the neiya.org home page. Thanks Chad!
Rules instruction and discussion and boat preparation will be featured at our Annual Tune-up at Steve Lamb’s shop in Canton MA December 5th. More on the Tune-up to come…
Pdf and or read below 2015 NIA Racing Rules Change Summary.pdf
By: Tim McCormick November 13, 2015
INTRODUCTION
The National Iceboat Authority (NIA) Racing Rules have served ice boating well for several decades. They were developed so sailors from different regions could race safely by following a common set of rules. This recent update is meant to provide improvements that keep pace with some of the lessons learned during that time. Since July, 2015, the Directors of the NIA have been meeting regularly via telephone and email to discuss the proposed changes. Many hours of editing, deliberation, and debate have been invested. For example, I have participated in over 8 hours of teleconferences and sent or received over 400 emails on this topic since July.
The biggest change most sailors will notice is the addition of two race course configurations called DARLING COURSE and INLINE COURSE which may be used as alternatives to the STANDARD COURSE we’ve been using for many years. This allows Race Committees to select a course which is most appropriate for their ice sailing event. Many different course layouts were discussed, but we felt it important to limit the number of combinations in order to prevent confusion. This was always a key point: allow some flexibility for Race Committees while minimizing confusion for sailors. On the race course, the goal for sailors is to be able to react intuitively and with common sense. Therefore, the number of possible race course configurations needed to be limited. We concluded three configurations met this purpose.
STANDARD COURSE
The first course is the STANDARD COURSE. This is unchanged from the previous Racing Rules.
DARLING COURSE
The second course is the DARLING COURSE, which is a STANDARD COURSE modified with the addition of two DARLING MARKS which must be left to PORT. This is named in honor of John Darling who was the resident race committee and race starter in the New Jersey area throughout the 1970’s and 1980’s. Mr. Darling was the first to use the DARLING MARK at the leeward end of the course. The DARLING MARK serves several purposes:
- In larger fleets, there can be a tendency for some of the even side starterso n STARBOARD TACK to over stand the windward MARK. When they tack over to PORT TACK, they are set up for a head on collision with yachts that have already rounded the windward MARK. Therefore, near the windward MARK, the DARLING MARK creates separation between ON-THE-WIND PORT TACK yachts and OFF-THE-WIND STARBOARD TACK yachts to minimize collisions.
- After rounding the windward MARK, some yachts may desire to JIBE as soon as possible. This can create head-on collision situations with STARBOARD TACK ON- THE-WIND yachts that have understood the windward MARK. Therefore, near the windward MARK, the DARLING MARK creates separation between ON-THE-WIND
STARBOARD TACK yachts and OFF-THE-WIND PORT TACK yachts to minimize
collisions.
C. Creates separation between a PORT TACK ON-THE-WIND yacht that has just rounded
the leeward MARK and STARBOARD TACK OFF-THE-WIND yachts approaching the
leeward MARK.
D. Creates separation between a STARBOARD TACK ON-THE-WIND yacht that has just
rounded the leeward MARK and subsequently TACKED and a PORT TACK OFF-THE- WIND yacht approaching the leeward MARK.
The bottom line is….the DARLING MARK is intended to create separation between yachts which should minimize head-on collisions near the potentially congested areas around a MARK. Some may claim that DARLING MARKS reduce the playing field and reduce the tactical freedom of a race. I think they’re overstating it. With a 1 mile course and two DARLING MARKS each placed 100 yards from their associated MARK, the “tactical area” is only reduced by 11% (200yards x 1 mile/1760 yards = 0.11). Typically sailors don’t change tacks until they’ve completed the MARK rounding and achieved full speed. That is likely 50 yards from a MARK so the real effect on the “tactical area” is more like 5%. This is a minor issue compared to the safety gained.
A key point regarding DARLING MARKS is the imaginary line between the MARK and its accompanying DARLING MARK is considered part of the MARK. Therefore, if a yacht crosses over this line, she will have fouled the MARK and be disqualified.
The disadvantage of the DARLING MARKS, of course, is the need for the Race Committee to have additional equipment and the added labor of placing or moving the DARLING MARKS on the course.
INLINE COURSE
The third course is the INLINE COURSE. This is A DARLING COURSE modified with the finish line being placed in line with the windward and leeward MARKS. This configuration has been used successfully for years in the Eastern region of the US. The INLINE COURSE is intended to provide the following advantages:
- Due to the placement of the leeward DARLING MARK, all yachts should be sailing in the same direction at the finish.
- The Race Committee location during the finish is more protected than when a perpendicular finish is used.
- On smaller sailing areas, such as those which can be found in the Eastern US, there is not enough room to have a finish line perpendicular to the wind and direct the finished yachts through a safety zone, then round up from OFF-THE-WIND to ON_THE-WIND and coast into the parking area(s). The INLINE COURSE finish line uses less space because it directs finishing yachts parallel to the starting line and directs finished yachts around the odd end of the starting line.
- All finished yachts would been entering the parking area from the same direction.
- No safety zone for the Race Committee to setup.
F. Since there is no safety zone, all yachts sailing in the following race would be allowed to line up on the starting line. This makes it easier for those sailors and quicker for the Race Committee to start the next race.
A disadvantage of the INLINE COURSE is the MARK end of the finish line is significantly “favored”. This may cause congestion near the MARK end of the finish line, but the fact that all yachts are traveling in the same direction should make that issue more manageable. In addition, the lack of a safety zone means there is less room to evade a hazardous situation near the leeward MARK. Similar to the DARLING COURSE, the Race Committee will need additional equipment and added labor for placing or moving the DARLING MARKS.
RACE COURSE SELECTION
No one race course is perfect; however some course configurations may work better for your sailing event. We’re relying on the Race Committee of the event to make the best decision for your fleet. As you can see in the descriptions above, there are significant differences in the race courses and it will take time for sailors to become comfortable with a new course. With this in mind, the NIA recommends that once a course configuration is selected for the event, this should not be changed for the duration of that event.
SAFETY ZONE
The safety zone has created much debate amongst ice sailors over the years. Some have claimed it’s a “danger zone” rather than a safety zone since it is often littered with parked yachts, moving yachts, personal gear, or spectators. It’s true that a safety zone which is not correctly set up or enforced can be dangerous. We discussed eliminating it, but concluded that it adds more to safety than detracts from it. The bottom line is we must do better as Race Committees and sailors to enforce and self-police the safety zone to make sure it truly is making everyone safer.
APPROACHING THE WINDWARD MARK
Another addition is Right-of-Way rule 8.a which states: “When yachts sailing ON-THE-WIND on opposite tacks are approaching a MARK, the PORT TACK yacht shall keep clear of the STARBOARD TACK yacht.” This new rule eliminates the previous confusion about the governing rule when approaching the windward MARK: Did the STARBOARD TACK yacht have rights over the PORT TACK yacht or was the PORT TACK yacht inside and therefore require the STARBOARD TACK yacht to stay clear? This new rule clarifies that the PORT TACK yacht shall keep clear.
PROPULSION
You may have noticed that some of the better runners in our fleets might push their boat straight upwind or downwind during a light air race. In addition, they might push straight upwind during the start, then layoff, when tactically advantageous, to start wind propulsion. This practice is now limited by Sailing rule D which now states: “Propulsion – A yacht may not employ any means of propulsion other than the action of the wind on the sails. However, the crew (unassisted by anyone except for reasons of physical disability as authorized by the Judges) may push the yacht to achieve wind propulsion.” The previous version of the rule stated: “may push the yacht to leave the starting line or to return the yacht to wind propulsion when
necessary.” The previous wording allowed a sailor to push straight upwind from the starting line without the intent of achieving wind propulsion. The simple point of the new wording is that any pushing, other than pushing to achieve wind propulsion, is not allowed.
TACKING AT THE START OF A RACE
One of the safety issues addressed is protecting the Race Committee immediately following the start of a race. New rule IV.C.3 states: “After a yacht starts and until she rounds the windward MARK for the first time, a yacht shall not pass between the center of the starting line (positions 1 and 2) and the leeward MARK.” This prevents yachts from tacking immediately after the start of the race and endangering the Race Committee.
ROOM TO FINISH
Another point which has often confused sailors is Right-of-Way rule 8.b, which states: “Each yacht shall be entitled to room to cross the finish line.” This is often misinterpreted and I’ve even heard some champion sailors state after a particularly close race: “I left you plenty of room to finish: …..behind me”. This is not the intent of the rule. The intent is explained in the Rules Interpretations on page 22: Right-of-way rule #8 giving each yacht room to finish is for the ends of the line and is designed to keep the race committee from getting killed and to avoid general havoc in the finishing area. Port tack yachts shall keep clear of STARBOARD TACK yachts except at the committee end of the line where PORT TACK must be given room to finish. At the ends of the line a windward yacht must allow a leeward yacht room to finish. The bottom line here is sailors must use COMMON SENSE as explained in Sailing Rule A.
CONCLUSION
The changes to the NIA Racing Rules are significant and may take some time to get used to. Many sailors will continue to use the STANDARD COURSE and these changes will have little effect on them. The important point to remember is: using the DARLING COURSE or INLINE COURSE is optional, so you can choose the course which fits your fleet best. Regardless of which course you choose, the 2015 Racing Rules should make your sailing safe, fair, and fun, in that order.
NOR 2016 Eastern Region DN Championship
NOTICE OF RACE
Eastern Lakes Regional DN Championship Regatta
Jan 9-10, 2016
North American Eastern Region
Organizing Authority
International DN Ice Yacht Racing Association
North American Eastern Region
1. Rules:
All races will be governed by the Racing Rules of the National Iceboat Authority; the By-Laws of the IDNIYRA, and Official Specifications of the DN Ice Yacht; the Notice of Race, including any amendments to the Notice of Race, (except as any of these are altered by the sailing instructions) and the Sailing Instructions. The Sailing Instructions can be modified at the Skippers Meeting and by a notice posted on the official notice board.
Nine race regatta format – 3 race minimum in the Gold Fleet will constitute the regatta. Fleets – Gold & Silver Fleet, Plate Runner Division, Rookie Division, Volunteer split for fleets if needed. Discard race after 6 races sailed.
2. Eligibility:
All DN class yachts meeting the requirements of the Official Specifications and whose skippers meet the requirements of the By-Laws of the IDNIYRA as stated in the section IDNIYRA Regattas are eligible to enter and race in the championship.
3. Site Information and Postings:
- The primary site is within the North American Eastern Region
- Site and Headquarters Information will be determined by the regatta organizer.
- Official regatta information, updates and accommodations: dnamerica.org, neiya.org & NEIYA hotline – (508) 377-6100 Box #8
4. Entry and Fee:
Register in the pits Saturday morning
$30 registration fee
5. Schedule of Events:
- Sat 9:15-10am on ice registration
- Sat 10am Skippers Meeting
- Sat 11am First DN start
- Sunday 10:00am First start. No race will start after 3PM
6. Sailing instructions
Official Sailing Instructions will be provided at registration.
7. Prizes
We are trying to locate any and all trophies for this event.
8. Proof of Insurance
Proof of personal or race liability insurance ($300,000 minimum)
Chad Atkins
IDNIYRA – Eastern Rear Commodore
catkins4487@gmail.com
(401) 787-456
Fall NEIYA Convergence
The calls went out and they came from near and far. Many commented that it was the strongest showing ever and I strongly agree.
We had the usual participants (suspects) from all over New England as well strong showings from our friends on Long Island NY, a little island off 30 miles off the coast of Massachusetts and NJ.
Boats changed hands including some new sailors buying full boats and equipment to get started. Racing and service awards were presented after the Luncheon and we look forward to setting up the start/finish lines again this season.
Thanks to all that made this event happen most importantly treasurer/Secretary Bob Haag. Stay tuned for more event photos, upcoming news and events. This is the waiting period. Waiting for ice. Get your rigs ready as it’s coming.
Think Ice!
John Stanton
DN 5023
NEIYA Vice Commodore
Time and Miles Melt Under Loaded Runners
Found the Bill of Sale for my original DN in a box over the weekend. Wow, this will be my twenty-first year with my own ice boat. Nothing compared to Leo Healy and some of our long term ice veterans, but still something to reflect on. I am looking forward to sailing with you all for the next 20 years.
Each season was different. Both conditions as well as the amount of time I was able to commit or steal from other less exciting time drainers. One constant in all the ever changing ice conditions is our annual meeting and swap meet. Time to stand around in the open air kick some runners and chat with friends an easier task without helmets and goggles. you last saw with helmets, goggles, gloves and gaiters. There will be people from all corners of New England and the North East. Green and White mountainers, plenty of flat landers as well as coastal and off shore island dwellers.
Come out for an event that is not weather dependent, baring a hurricane or Nor Easter. Many of you have already paid your dues and lunch online. Thank you! We need to hear from the rest of you. Thanks to all the rest who book below. Of course you can pay at the door but please RSVP me john@neiya.org or Bob our treasurer at treasurer@neiya.org. Booking ahead or letting us know really does help smooth out the process. For lunch and dues just click here other options below.
While you have your Card out, consider getting some club fleece. Links are on the right.
See you on Saturday,
John Stanton
DN 5023
NEIYA Vice Commodore
john@neiya.org
P.S. Lunch is only $10 this year and is subsidized by the NEIYA and there will be plenty Swedish Meatballs but only if we can plan ahead.
P.P.S. Don’t forget to put up items you have for sale https://neiya.org/classifieds/ and and bring them along to the swap.
| Description | Price | |
| 2016 Membership |
$30 |
 |
| 2016 Membership and Lunch |
$40 |
|
| 2016 Membership for one & Lunch x2 |
$50 |
|
| Lunch Only |
$10 |
|
| If you must pay at the door, please email your intent to come via email john@neiya.com or treasurer@neiya.org | ||
Gather up your gear the time is near
Just a couple of weeks till our annual event. Soon we will be counting down the days…
Please pay your dues and lunch online today. Don’t worry you do not have to have PayPal, any credit/debit card will do.
Lunch is a club subsidized $10 this year. Yes, half off from last year! Our treasurer Bob Haag would appreciate online payment or at least let him know (treasurer@neiya.org) you’re coming for an accurate head count. There will be plenty of Swedish meatballs.
| Description | Price | |
| 2016 Membership | $30 |
|
| 2016 Membership and Lunch | $40 |
|
| 2016 Membership for one & Lunch x2 | $50 |
|
| Lunch Only | $10 |
|
| Mail in Form | ||
If you have any extra gear be sure to list it in the classified section and drag it to the swap meet. Your old gear will make someone very happy.
Think Ice and see at the Meeting,
John Stanton
DN 5023
NEIYA Vice Commodore
It’s on! Annual Meeting, Swap & Lunch 11/7/15
It’s that time of year again. Post Labor Day, its nearly MLB post season, football is in full swing, it’s getting colder and, of course, the NEIYA annual meeting, Swap Meet and Luncheon. Mark your calendar Saturday November 7th, same as last year, Knights of Columbus Hall 17 Willow St, Westborough, MA 01581.
Schedule of Events:
9:00 am – Swap Meet
11:30 – Lunch
1:00 – Annual Meeting
4:00 – Close the joint
There will be prizes, give a ways loads of gear in the lot and this year lunch will be JUST $10. That’s right half off last year’s price and of course plenty of Swedish meatballs.
It’s time to renew your membership and come to the annual meeting, swap meet and lunch. Just click on the appropriate button below.
| Description | Price | |
| 2016 Membership | $30 |
|
| 2016 Membership and Lunch | $40 |
|
| 2016 Membership for one & Lunch x2 | $50 |
|
| Lunch Only | $10 |
|
We urge you to pay for membership and lunch via the appropriate links above on the website. Of course, we will still accept mailed applications and checks but please help us streamline this process.
Paper Membership Form or copy and past below URL
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1GIfDm8c0PCfrz_Yj45sNoZrcFkBBljTt9DeWkNfUhv8/edit?usp=sharing
Schedule of Events:
9:00 am – Swap Meet
11:30 – Lunch
1:00 – Annual Meeting
4:00 – Close the joint
Please register today our treasurer and the caterer will be much happier with more notice.
Looking forward to seeing everybody again and prepare for the upcoming season.
Think Ice!
John Stanton
NEIYA Vice Commodore
DN5023
john@neiya.org
Dog Days of August and Cooler Dogs to Come
Upfront apologies employing the oldest trick in the advertising/PR/communication game. My old ad copy instructor would have failed me for using a dog picture. Cute babies and dogs will capture most everyone’s attention and in our case a “black ice” is even more effective. We are almost through the dog days of August and time to THINK ICE once again. We are only a few months away.
Now that I have your attention, there are a few things I need to share.
1) Classified Section https://neiya.org/classifieds/
I have purged all the old classified ads for the upcoming season. If you had something posted and it’s still available give me a shout john@neiya.org. I may be able to resurrect what you had or better yet just submit a new one.
Ad posting reminders
- Post and view ads at https://neiya.org/classifieds/
- All ads MUST have a way to contact you either email or phone. This limits the number of nuisance posts and reduces clutter in this section.
- Include pricing and location info.
- Want a picture send directly to me at john@neiya.org.
- If your item sells please let me know via email so it can be removed.
- Don’t forget, all ads will appear after approval. If you don’t see it right away give it a little time.
2) Annual swap and lunch date to be announced in the next week or so. Other off ice racing and cruising events will follow shortly there after.
3) Still need some website administrative help. You don’t have to know anything . The job comes with instruction and a help line (me).
4) Always seeking input and suggestions from seasoned sailors and newbies alike. Just reach out or post a comment below. I know this is not a shy crowd so speak up.
Thinking of ICE to play on,
John Stanton
NEIYA Vice Commodore
DN5023
P.S. For those who only come to look at the pictures, you know who you are. There’s more!
Mid Summer Safety Message
Spotted this vessel with a very winter themed name last night at Cedar Point Yacht Club in Westport, CT. It was a hot night, really hot, but the name cooled me right down and long to be back on a big (thick) plate of ice.
It’s never too early to remind everyone that there is Thin Ice somewhere. On July 29th that would be tied up to a slip in Westport, CT.
Think Ice and enjoy the rest of the summer,
John Stanton
NEIYA Vice Commodore
DN5023
Open Wheel Wednesday Postponed Till Thursday 7/2
Just like ice boating, race cars are subject to the weather. See you there Tomorrow.
BOOGITY BOOGITY BOOGITY Lets Go Racing Boys! http://youtu.be/y8by2zu8PgQ
Big Ice in June – Wooden Boat Show ON NOW!
The Wooden Boat Show at Mystic Seaport starts today and runs through the weekend (6/26-28). If you have attended before, I don’t have to tell you why you need to go back.
Besides the usual beautiful new and old finely crafted vessels the North Shrewsbury Ice Boat and Yacht Club have brought their fully restored classic stern steerer Rocket (all 50 feet of her) to the Wooden Boat Show at Mystic Seaport. John Sperr of the Hudson River Ice Yacht Club put together a great page detailing some of Rocket’s restoration and shake down cruise on the Hudson in 2014. She will be on display in the “I Built it Myself” area and easily stick out from and dwarf the smaller home built crafts.
She was last seen on ice during her maiden sail on the Hudson in 2014 and again this past season on home ice. If you missed either of these opportunities you must come. As we all know, ice can be fickle and a craft her size requires big and thick ice, so this weekend is your best opportunity for a sure viewing. Hope to see you there.
Summer and fall will burn hot for a few months but as always THINK ICE!
John Stanton
NEIYA Vice Commodore
DN5023
What’s Everyone Up To?
Hey Folks-
I hope all the stuff on the site has been at least a little interesting…. We are trying to keep it fresh as the summer drags on!
There is plenty of room on this site for all kinds of content so if you have something you’d like to share with the gang email it to me at t_thieler@yahoo.com and I’ll be happy to post it.
Thoughts, articles, build updates, photos (incriminating or otherwise) or whatever else are welcome. As long as it is even remotely connected to iceboating all content is fair game!
I know everyone out there is up to some interesting stuff so let’s hear about it!
As John Stanton mentioned earlier he could also use a hand with the site itself- if you have the time, expertise, inclination (or any combination thereof) give him a shout-
Think Ice….
James “T” Thieler DN US 5224
Visions of Hard Water While We Wait…
As we all know the internet is loaded with overly cute cat and endless dog videos. The vast majority of which I would never share, pass on nor post to our club’s site. This one however has merit and contains all the elements of ice boating. vast ice, a vehicle bounding down the ice and people enjoying a sunny winter’s day.
Enjoy some winter fun during the first part of June.
John Stanton
NEIYA Vice Commodore
DN5023
P.S. If anyone has desires or aspirations to help with the NEIYA’s website please reach out to me. No experience required and as some members will attest i’m a good teacher of technology. Email to discuss john@neiya.org
Cool Video Footage From 2015 Easterns / New Englands
As we head into spring it might be that we have a lot of armchair sailing ahead…. Has to happen sooner or later. Here are three videos to get into the rotation! Thanks to Joe Meade for the camera and Jeff Kent for what Oliver Moore calls the “Stern Mounted Narcissism Pole.” Happy viewing! T
Peter Van Rossem tearing it up with stern-mounted camera in light to medium breeze at New Englands; watch for the big pass at about 5:45!
T. Thieler with stern mounted camera, same day; watch for the pass at 8:15- the red boat is skippered by Paul Tropea, who was pushing his vintage boat to the max! Hope to see more of him next year- I think he lives in Argentina for half of the year, wonder if he will be training down there all summer….
Joe Meade with bow-mounted camera during the big breeze at the Eastern champs- check the mast bend at about 3:30! Must be a CSI rig to survive that….
It really was a terrific weekend of sailing- thanks to all who turned up and made it happen- more to come….
Stay tuned! T
James “T” Thieler
12 Channing St.
Newport, RI 02840
401 258 6230
t_thieler
2015 DOC FELLOWS, IN-DEPTH….
The place: Sebago Lake.
The Date: Last Saturday.
The Event: The Doc Fellows Regatta.
Now imagine how cool that would sound if Howard Cosell said it!
The Doc was pretty cool this year- light breeze in the morning, faded to nothing mid-day for awhile, built nicely in the afternoon- Was nice to have a break to nap and/or socialize on the ice for awhile-
Ice was good in AM and softened as the sun rose and temps went up-
Harry Richardson and Eben Whitcomb had close racing- seemed like they match raced pretty much every lap- Harry pipped Eben to take third.
Chad Atkins and your author had a bit of match race going as well- Chad spent the light air part of the day going around the course and staying in the zone and it paid off after the breeze filled back in- heading into the last race, winner-take-all finale’ he was able to get his nose out front and extend around the course for a convincing win. He gets style points for doing it in his new boat, home built last fall- if you see this craft you will be impressed!
I think he was using full-length, 100 degree runners which stayed on top of the soft ice better than my short 100’s. Maybe I should have tried my full length 90 degree runners or even 90 degree max inserts- those work well in soft ice sometimes. Chad said the extra length no doubt was a little painful in tacks and gybes but it certainly didn’t hurt when he was going in a straight line! We both used Kent (CSI) 4.1 rigs and Chad had a North F-01 sail while I had a 1D Power Gold. Wish I could say what the difference is but to my eye they look pretty darn similar…. Anyway he sailed well and gets his name on a very cool-looking trophy!
We had a few older boats out racing- John Hayes and Richard Gluckman had a little battle of their own going on as well- Brett Reis, Ramblin’ Roger and a few other sailors also had a good day cruising the lake-
Following an awesome fireworks display at the launch ramp dinner was at the Run Of The Mill on the Saco River. 22 oz prime rib. Rare. Phenomenal. Yeah, I slept like a rock that night- thanks to Dave Fortier for letting us all crash at his house and also for keeping score! And thanks to Kelly Klicker for the wrap-around photo of the launch area-
All in all a good day! This season is far from over- the ice is thick and the snow is melting- reports from up north sounding good- We are still hoping to get the Easterns, New Englands and Canadian champs in the books- Stay tuned to this site and don’t mothball your gear yet!
Scores, as best as we can tell…
2015 DOC FELLOWS REGATTA
Chad “Chazzz” Atkins US 4487 1 (S) 2 1 1 5
James “Irving” Thieler US 5224 (S) 1 1 2 2 6
Harry “Divider” Richardson US 5148 2 2 3 3 (3) 10
Eben “Nice Guy” Whitcomb US 4775 3 3 4 4 (4) 14
Dave “WHO?!?” Fortier US 4690 4, 5, S S S
John “Authority Figure” Stanton US 5023 6, 6, ?????
John Hayes and Richard Gluckman had some good racing here but the scores get a bit fuzzy at this point- sorry guys, we will try to do better next time and will work on some nick-names for you both!
Think Ice! T
The only and bestest to be found
Ice reports followers, no doubt, have been following the exploits from Lake Wentworth in NH. Seems its the only game in town or throughout the region.
Paul along with two other locals sailed for a good part of the day. Conditions don’t sound great but they were out there and I was staring at a computer screen all day. Who do you think had a better time regardless of conditions?
Paul’s assessment of the day:
“Still grade 5. Shell Ice about the same but the skim ice has firmed up solid. Still some funny (since I wasn’t wound up when I encountered it) hazards to be found. The one I am referring to was shell ice dropping abruptly into plank deep slush. Quick stop but plank intact. Gonna try tomorrow A.M. but forecast rain to snow on Saturday“
Paul, thanks for venturing out and bring back your report.
Am I on the road and typing at the same time or loading my gear? No, think I will wait for things to smooth out just a bit. Info on Wentworth is posted below.
Let’s see what the next rain and thaw cycle brings. Winnipesaukee, Somewhere in Maine perhaps?
Stay tuned there will be more sailing,
John Stanton
NEIYA Vice Commodore
The Thaw, Freeze and Sail…
We all knew it would happen, though this snow has been a bit discouraging. There has been chatter of snow melting to slush all over the Northeast. The time is near. But don’t jump too quickly. Safety is paramount. Use caution and patience.
Paul Delnero in NH sailed Lake Wentworth today and reported into the NEIYA ice reports email group. No doubt most of you have already read it and are thinking of putting Wentworth in your plans for the Weekend. The lake has not been thoroughly scouted yet and is not ready for the masses.
However there will be a scouting party out tomorrow morning sometime after 10. If your around Join in and help scout. There are risks and this is not an endorsement of conditions just passing on some info
There will be an update tomorrow evening.
Sail Safe, Sail Fast and have fun,
John Stanton
NEIYA Vice Commodore
Long Island (NY) is in the House
Just in from John Ziermann from the LRIBYC Much thanks…
TO ALL: THE LONG ISLAND CHAMPIONSHIPS ARE ON!!! SAT. FEBRUARY 28, 2015 Due to the great demand, there will be two sites for the Long Island Championships. DN Regatta: Site: MECOX BAY, SOUTHAMPTON NY (see attached map) Skippers Meeting: 9:30 AM (due to diminishing wind speeds) Entry Fee: Entry fee: $10 for LRIBYC members and $15 for non members. (Please exact change or check.. Thank you)J-14 Regatta: Site: LAKE RONKONKOMA, RONKONKOMA NY (see attached map) Skippers Meeting: 9:30 AM (due to diminishing wind speeds) Entry Fee: Entry fee: $10 for LRIBYC members and $15 for non members. (Please exact change or check.. Thank you)
John Ziermann DN-5426/Treasurer
IMPORTANT – NJ Ice Update
Just got off the phone with Dave Clapp.
He reports that while there is still sailing down on Barnegat bay as reported earlier most sailors will be on Toms River. Which is about an hour closer for us New Englanders.
Launch info
Island Heights, NJ
rt 37 e To Central ave
Go toward water and left
There will be several launch areas
No changes for
The North Shrewsbury Ice Boat & Yacht Club
Address: 26 Union Street, Red Bank, NJ 07701
Phone:(732) 747-5665
The antique Stern Steerers will be sailing and racing on the Navesink in Red Bank this Weekend. The Rocket and the Jack Frost. If you have not seen either of these sailing pieces of history you should make a day of it. Sail amongst our rich history. I sailed on the same plate as both the Jack Frost and Rocket last year and it was a wonderful experience looking over at the graceful historic beasts gliding on the Hudson .
Still waiting on Long Island Info will update on when we know.
JJS
Salty Sailing – This Weekend 2/28…
![Jonathan_Nimerfroh+(104+of+6)[1]](https://neiya.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/jonathan_nimerfroh104of61.jpg)
Slurpee waves on Nantucket by Jonathan Nimerfroh of JDN Photography.
More nearly frozen waves. Anyone thinking about making Slurpee Runners?
We all know the story. We watched it pile up, shoveled it, plowed it, scraped it and cursed at it. But bitching and moaning is’nt going to make it go away and expose the solid ice below. The only thing this will is spining miles beneith your wheels.
The North Shrewsbury Ice Boat & Yacht Club
Address: 26 Union Street, Red Bank, NJ 07701
Phone:(732) 747-5665
The antique Stern Steerers will be sailing and racing on the Navesink in Red Bank this Weekend. The Rocket and the Jack Frost. If you have not seen either of these sailing pieces of history you should make a day of it. Sail amongst our rich history. I sailed on the same plate as both the Jack Frost and Rocket last year and it was a wonderful experience looking over at the graceful historic beasts gliding on the Hudson .
Further down the shore on Barnegat Bay in BAyville, NJ. Launching from Berkeley Island County Park on Barnegat Bay
There are promises of bubble boats and other Skeeter and what we are told a nice piece of ice.
Our Long Island (NY) friends have been sailing all week with some mixed reviews and experiences. Recaps have been floating about earlier this week. Brief recap, all should be suspect and salt even more so.
That said scouting attempts are being made this morning to find a suitable venue for the Long Island Championships and recreational sailing. Currently in contention are Lake Ronkonkoma and a couple bays further east. I will post a comment on this post when word comes out.
That is all I know about could there be something along the shore somewhere else? Maybe?
Now for roll call. Who is going where? Comment below.
Sail Safe, Sail Fast…
John Stanton
NEIYA Vice Commodore
P.S. I will likely hit Long Island tomorrow.
P.P.S. Give T a big shout out as he makes his way to the DN Euro Championships. Good luck T sail fast and bring your New England Style across the line.
Ice Wisdom to Live By…
As we await news of Zamboni action, here is something to think about.
DO NOT BE THE FFF GUY. DO NOT be that guy!!!
What is FFF? Well it is not a racing term; it should be avoided by all. It relates to new ice, and it has three parts:
1. Do not be FIRST– Yes someone has to be first to sail the new area, but do not do it alone. Sail the
new ice with a buddy (remember never sail alone) scouting together. At least insure there is another boat ready to go, rapid transit to come help you if need be, and someone is watching you out there.
2. Do not be FAST– Being fast comes later, sail new areas in slow scouting mode, up in the boat scanning the ice horizon. Watch the tell tales later, slow cross sail, expanding the area scouted.
3. Do not go FAR– Do not sail off into the distance, to the other side of the lake. Long commute to come help you if you are the first to find the holes. See # 2 again. High Risk if you rush off alone, in fast mode, off into the distance, being the first to sail the new area.
The three together spell trouble.
DO NOT be that guy!
Yours truly
Old Frosty
(Old Frosty is not a real person, but a combination of old thinkers, grumpy old and young men and the usual suspects seen on and about the ice)
P.S. In other words let’s be safe so we can all enjoy some fun together.
Can’t sail? At Least Look Like You Do
Greetings all. No I have not discovered a secret plate of black ice. A Shangri-la with miles of mirror smooth ice just over the horizon may still be out there but think not. This does not mean that our Cruising Chair Bill Buchholz will not come up with something new and interesting so keep an eye toward the horizon. We never know what might be coming into view. And yes, there are races to be run as well…
After more than enough difficulties, you don’t even want to know, the first batch of NEIYA club gear is available.
Below are check out buttons to order via PayPal. Note there limited quantities so order fast. Depending upon where the orders need to go I may ship to a central location and individuals can pick up.
Keep the faith. This season is not done yet.
Sail Fast, Sail Safe,
John Stanton
NEIYA Vice Commodore
P. S. From time to time I will send out custom order forms so you can include name and or sail # on gear.
| Product | Size | Inventory | Price | |
| Columbia Men’s Cathedral Peak Fleece Vest | XL | 2 | $48 |  |
| Columbia Men’s Cathedral Peak Fleece Vest | L | 5 | $48 | |
| Columbia Men’s Cathedral Peak Fleece Vest | M | 2 | $48 | |
| Columbia Men’s Cathedral Peak Fleece Vest | S | 2 | $48 | |
| Champion Performance Fleece Arctic Beanie | NA | 11 | $31 | |
New England Ice Yacht Association 