Saturday December 5th | Arthur C. Lamb Co | 85 Jackson St, Canton, MA 02021 | 11:00 – 3:00
Details
The 2015 Tune-up is Tomorrow Saturday 12/5
Annual Tune-up
T and company has been keeping us informed on the happenings to and on Lake Christina in Minnesota. At about 1500 miles away, its not your usual weekend sail. For the committed, I will leave the definition of that word to the reader though will say I’m in next year.
In our backyard, as you all should know, is the annual off ice tune-up at Steve Lamb’s shop tomorrow from 11:00 to about 3:00 pm. As previously reported, there will be learning sessions on stoning one’s runners, alignment, racing skills to help us sail faster and safer on and off the course and safety. Note: In order to keep the noise levels down and focus on learning and the transfer of knowledge grinders will not be in use this year.
A few new members will be bringing their boats in to get a safety and performance check before they set off to sail on their own. We are looking to pass on the years of ice sailing and boating skills to our newest members. Please welcome them and impart large doses of ice wisdom.
See you all there tomorrow and let me know if you have any questions,
John Stanton
john@neiya.org
Lake Christina
So here we are…. A lot of MN looks like this- God’s Country, no doubt about it.
Will see what the day brings! T
James “T” Thieler12 Channing St.
Newport, RI. 02840
401 258 6230
t_thieler
Heading West….
….so here we are…. Wisconsin…. Somewhere between Madison and Eau Claire. Scenic as can be and the driving is good.
Heading for the Western Challenge on Lake Christina near Alexandria, MN.
Sounds like there is a bit of snow on the lake but hey, you have to start the season somewhere! Can’t all be black ice and steady breeze.
Eben Whitcomb and Chad Atkins are in the van with T Thieler and there are at at least two NJ guys and two NY guys headed out- Word has it a few MD sailors were making the trip too-
More details as we get them- about to cross into the far off land of Minnesota!
Cheers from the proud highway…. T
James “T” Thieler12 Channing St.
Newport, RI. 02840
401 258 6230
t_thieler
NORTHWIND ICEBOATS
….So I stopped in to see Steve Duhamel at Northwind Iceboats the other day. I left with a new sidestay, custom bow tang (fabricated out of stainless on the spot while I waited), seven carbon battens, a bag full of insert bushings, a steering rod, and some cotter pins. If I’d stayed another hour I think he would have done the brakes on my van. Just amazing.
Thanks Steve! You are The Man.
If you haven’t ever been to Northwind Iceboats world headquarters the secret basement laboratory is in the pics below. Not only does Steve have every iceboat related part and gizmo ever made he is also a font of knowledge when it comes to iceboats, cars (esp VW’s), and life in general.
Check his website at http://www.northwindiceboats.com/
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James “T” Thieler12 Channing St.
Newport, RI. 02840
401 258 6230
t_thieler
Black – Friday, Top & More Importantly ICE!
Thanksgiving is over and done. Stuffed and plumped we move closer to our winter passion. We move forward to Black Friday, Blacktop and most importantly Black ice.
Waiting for ice our friends on Long Island (NY). have been rolling over the hard on a couple abandoned airfields. Prepping and waiting for ice to come.
Don’t forget the Lake Ronkonkoma Ice Boat Yacht Club’s (LRIBYC) Annual Swap Meet Week’s Yacht Yard Patchogue, NY December 12th, 1 – 4pm.
Across the sound your editor spent Black Friday on the blacktop going over shroud lengths and other settings. I think i’m ready. Time will tell.
The sailors in Maine have been keeping a keen eye on all the usual frog ponds and early ice venues. As reported on the CIBC site http://iceboat.me, ice is coming in but only safe enough to drool on for now. The picture of Plymouth Pond in Plymouth Maine is a couple days old and building to a safe thickness. Follow along online.
Black ice of sailable strength can be found and currently slated to be the primary site of the Western Challenge on Lake Christina in Ashby,MN. Backup site for the event is Thunder Bay Lodging in Alexandria, MN. More details as they happen on the Minnesota Ice Sailing Association site. Thanks to Four Lakes Ice Yacht Club for photo!
Fair winds, favored tacks and speed to our NEIYA competitors, Commodore T and company. We look forward to full on-road and start to finish coverage.
Don’t forget about our off ice Tune-up at Arthur Lamb Co shop Canton, MA this coming Saturday. Tune-up details. See you there.
Think Ice and be prepared it’s coming…,
John Stanton
NEIYA Vice Commodore
DN 5023
john@neiya.org
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…
2015 LRIBYC Swap Meet
22 DAYS TO GO!
It’s getting closer by the day….. DUH No kidding… I can’t wait ….
The great bargains … the cool stuff … get cash for some of that stuff
lying around … eat and drink ……meet new friends…pay your membership fee … WOW lots going on all in one day.
FREE FOOD AND DRINK FOR ALL!
(BTW, we only do this free stuff once a year)
Winter is around the corner, LET’S GET READY TO SWAP!
Bring your stuff…
Bring your cash…
Bring your best swap lingo…
SELL…SELL…SELL… BUY…BUY…BUY…LAKE RONKONKOMA ICE BOAT YACHT CLUB SWAP MEET
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.
Fremantle, Australia, 1987….
…..the America’s Cup challenger series was being dominated by the New Zealand team on KZ-7. They were undefeated except for one loss to Dennis Conner on Stars & Stripes.
The Kiwi boats had been built from fiberglass (and maybe Kevlar?), the only 12 Meters ever built from composites rather than wood or aluminum.
The Kiwis were tight-lipped about why they went composite; aluminum is strong and light as needed, or so everyone thought….
“Glass-gate” raged, competitors accused the Kiwis of cheating. Dennis Conner said it out loud at a press conference while seated next to the very outspoken Tom Blackaller, who for once in his life said “I don’t think you should have said that!”
Of course the Kiwis were livid. The challengers demanded core samples of the hull. The kiwis said no way and the controversy dragged on. Eventually core samples were taken and the boat declared legal.
But a lot of time, energy and thought had gone into the glass vs aluminum issue (who was psyching out whom?) and the kiwi team rolled on-
It’s been said since that possible advantages of the glass hull were increased stiffness and it didn’t “oil-can” the way aluminum hulls did in the big conditions of Fremantle. Others have said that the controversy over the material distracted everyone from looking closely at the hull form (she carried her max beam further aft than other twelves).
Whatever the case she went up against Stars & Stripes in the challenger final and Conner and the boys handed them their only losses of the series- in big breeze and waves, it was awesome. Crazy roundings, blown sails, close finishes, great stuff.
S&S of course went on and beat the Aussie defender KOOKABURRA by 4-0.
Fast forward to 2015 and KZ-7 is based out of the Hinckley yard in RI. Looks like she was trying out a new bow and the old one was left in the parking lot. Much more than a core sample available here!
Any composites experts (Jeff Kent, Oliver Moore, Chad Atkins, anyone else….) care to weigh in? Why is there no core along the centerline? What is the laminate material? What is the core material?
The regatta may be over but I’m still looking for answers!
Seriously, email me.
What’s this have to do with IceBoating? Not much but when I saw this bow at the yard I couldn’t resist.
This rambling essay brought to you by a big cup of Mystic Market dark roast.
Think Ice! T
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James “T” Thieler12 Channing St.
Newport, RI. 02840
401 258 6230
t_thieler
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
WESTERN CHALLENGE- SEASON KICK-OFF!
Each year a great regatta happens out in the wilds of Minnesota (which of course describes most of Minnesota). Loosely organized by a mysterious and shadowy group…. First weekend of December, best ice in the state, always a great way to kick off the season with some great sailing and a hell of a road trip!
Dates this year are December 4-6 (Friday-Sunday). Coming up fast….
Mainly a DN event but there have been other classes on occasion.
There are quite a few Eastern sailors gearing up to go and if you are interested and in need of a copilot or two call or email me and we will try to get you hooked up-
As Mike Kiefer always says about the Challenge: “IT’S GONNA BE EPIC!”
Think ICE!!
James “T” Thieler
401-258-6230
t_thieler
NEW RACE COURSES- Big News From NIA
Hey Folks- If you are planning on racing this winter be sure to read the following- Looks like we have some changes to the standard iceboat race course to get used to-
On a personal note I’m in favor- these changes will allow safer racing and also allow more races to be run in a given time period. READ ON!
National Iceboat Authority: Important Announcement
The National Iceboat Authority is happy to announce the release of a new version of the NIA Constitution & Racing Rules. (Click here to see new version.) This new version includes two new 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. The new racing rules also contain:
- Updated definitions and clauses to support the use of the DARLING COURSE or INLINE COURSE.
- Clarification on yachts which must keep clear while approaching the windward MARK on opposite TACKS.
- Updated restrictions on propulsion.
- A new rule which prohibits sailing between the LEEWARD MARK and the starting line immediately after the start.
Please feel free to contact any of the NIA Directors with questions or comments.
STANDARD COURSE
DARLING COURSE
INLINE COURSE
James “T” Thieler
12 Channing St.
Newport, RI 02840
401 258 6230
t_thieler
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
Deep Creek
To follow up on T’s post about the Mystery at Deep Creek, they also have the only Monotype XV in the US. Must be something in the water. We look forward to seeing them at the Swap Meet. Maybe they’ll bring us some of that Deep Creek.
FROM THE MARYLAND FLEET…
…That’s right, I said the Maryland fleet! There is DN activity down south in Deep Creek, MD. Where the heck is this? About due west of Baltimore and south-southeast of Pittsburgh, that’s where. In other words high in the hills and far enough from the Chesapeake Bay to be safe from marauding sea nettles and man-eating blue crabs.
These folks have been steadily building their fleet from zero (or close to it) just a few years ago to seventeen DN’s and counting! VERY impressive and we are pestering Ray Gauthier to tell us all how they did it. We may see a few of these guys at the meeting and a few are setting their sights on the Western Challenge in Minnesota in about a month. Keep an eye out for them! Check out the photos of this crew below-
We also have a report from Maryland’s Eastern Shore (Gawd’s Country- no shortage of nettles and blue crabs there) that one Ramblin’ Roger may be headed this way for the meeting this Sunday- Watch out for him too!
On the subject of the meeting we should have a good crowd; at least one van-load of sailors will be heading in from LI, who knows how many Maine-iacs will be there, and a good bet some PA and NY sailors will be in so we will have all points of the compass covered. Be there or be square….
Not too late to sign up and pay online here:
| Description | Price | |
| 2016 Membership |
$30 |  |
| 2016 Membership and Lunch |
$40 | |
| 2016 Membership for one & Lunch x2 |
$50 | |
| Lunch Only |
$10 | |
See y’all in a few days!
THINK ICE!
James “T” Thieler
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- deep creek 2
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 | ||
Cruising Musing
Oliver Moore recently gave us an excellent outline of the racing schedule for 2016, and if there’s ice for racing, there’s most definitely ice for cruising. The cruisers aren’t nearly as fussy, sailing on the most ridiculous crap imaginable. Witness last years circumnavigation of Frye Island from Nason’s Beach on Lake Sebago. We had 1-2′ waves of frozen stuff in 25kts. But three out of four made it back in one piece. Not bad, not bad at all.
Below we have a piece from the CIBC archives to jog the imagination. We should all go racing as often as possible, but just as often you should go for the pure joy of exploring and sailing fast on a wild lake.Damariscotta Sailing 2/22
by billbuchholz
We need to have a discussion about the trend toward grade inflation. Some people become so desperate after a spell without sailing that they’ll see any piece of crop plate and dub it the Yellow Brick Road. The Grade 8 ascribed yesterday was just around the pit area and as far out as a fellow might want to walk in a howling wind with driving snow. In actual fact, taken as a whole, it’s probably more like a 4.
The sailing was great when you realized the boat was not going to explode from the rough ice. Sailing fast was actually better because at higher speeds the wind noise began to drown out the sound of smashing shell ice. A few of us ventured south through the narrows into Muscungus Bay, and then down the river almost Damariscotta Mills. The same open water that stopped us last year from going all the way down was still there. So this dream remains. The north wind blew straight down the river and never failed. There are plenty of smooth patches upon which to tack and gybe so keeping the boat wound up was easy. There’s just something so magical about sailing on a narrow river. You need to watch out for overhanging trees as you place you tacks precisely on those lovely smooth spots near the shore. There is a destination: how far will we get this time. The gybes go on and on like free falling or downhill skiing.
The Narrows is in good shape. Again, choose the smooth ice for maneuvering. The rest of the group stayed close to the pits. The ice along the west shore is the best, and especially good in the south west corner. That’s where the only pressure ridge exists, and it only blocks access to the shore there. We didn’t discuss it as a group, but I sailed past what appeared to be a frozen hole about the size of a hot tub, surrounded by a low berm of frozen snow. It looked like there were branches in the ice. This was just beyond the first island. We should mark it tomorrow.
The only damage of the day was Outlaw’s sheet block cassette, which was pinned with a hollow 1/4? aluminum tube. The tube sheared and the cassette bent. We were deep in the south end at the time, but were able to rig a temporary sheet from a spare block.
Thanks to Ben Fuller for breaking up the snow blocking the ramp. Also sailing today were Lloyd, Frank Able, Bunting, Curtis Rindlaub, Hal and John Eastman
There will be sailing tomorrow, boats are on the ice. Snow storm moving in Saturday night into Sunday. As the case always seems to be: this it it!
Coming Up Next – Racing and Much More…
Below is a summary of some of the key events to come in the 2016 season.
Please use the links below to pay your dues and to pay for you delicious lunch. Do it now on paypal and it makes our lives so much easier at the event.
2016 Membership – $30
2016 Membership and Lunch – $40
2016 Membership for one & Lunch x2 – $50
Meeting Lunch Only – $10
2016 Membership and Lunch – $40
2016 Membership for one & Lunch x2 – $50
Meeting Lunch Only – $10
The Great Western Challenge
December 3-6 2015
The GWC is an amazing event. I’ve been the last two years and it has always delivered. Its a great way to jump start the sailing season. There will be a New England contingent making the trek west so talk to Commodore T and reserve your spot in the train.
Tune Up Clinic at Steve Lamb’s Shop
Early December TBD 2015
There information sessions on general iceboat tuning, safety and a racing 101 primer. Time allowing we should also be able to sharpen a few runners. Be sure to show up to get some tuning tips for the upcoming season. The date is tentative at the moment and will be confirmed at the swap meet.
Early Season Cruising Rally
Late December
Stay tuned for the dates but Bill Buchholz plans on getting us gathered and partying on the ice as soon as conditions allow. Don’t count VT out Ron Bouchard and the rest of the Green Mountain folks will be eyeing the small ponds in VT waiting for the first safe opportunity to sail. Somewhere in NH the there is a small pond that will freeze soon and ready do sail.
The Don “Doc” Fellows Regatta
January 2&3 2016
We will be kicking off the 2016 New England race season with the Doc Fellows. So make sure to pack the car before celebrating the New Year because you aren’t going to want to miss this one. In addition to DNs we will also be hosting a separate Wizz start. Lets get those boats going around some marks.
The DN Eastern Championships
January 9 & 10 2016
The Eastern Region Champs are the big regional one. Get there.
The New England Championships
January 16 & 17 2016
Follow up on your success at the Easterns with a strong showing at the NEs. This is the big trophy (permanent). You want your name on it!
Mid Season Cruising Rally
Early February
Bill Buchholz again will be the ring leader for what is sure to be an epic day(s) on the ice.
DN Gold Cup and European Championships
January 23-30 2016
Hosted by Austria. For the truly addicted pack up the boat and head to Europe for an experience you will never forget. The NEIYA will be well represented and T has already bought tickets. If you think you can make the trip reach out to T for travel tips now.
DN North American Championships
February 20-27 2016
Hosted by the Central region, this is what all the practice was for. Test out your new found speed against the rest of the continent.
Bean Pot Regatta
When the schedule and conditions allow
Steve Madden is the force behind this classic regatta. The Wild Card on the event schedule Steve will make the call and get us racing.
Spring Fling & Winni the Hard Way
I has been too long since we had a proper hard way attempt and Bill Buchholz is determined to make it happen this season. Stay tuned as he will make the call as conditions allow. For a trip down memory lane and to get a sense for this awesome event check out the reports on:
That’s all Folks. See you soon.
Oliver Moore – Race Committee Chairman
DN 5469
DN 5469
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
New England Ice Yacht Association 
