Our Season Continues @ Moosehead
This time of year, there’s a familiar hesitation to put fingers to the keyboard. Not writing about the inevitable finale to another iceboating season somehow delays it for another few days. The proverbial fat lady may be waiting in the wings, but she hasn’t sung just yet.
Moosehead Lake continues to defy the odds, offering late-season sailing when other venues have long since surrendered to spring. Just two weeks ago, the lake delivered with strong winds that kept some sailors on the sidelines, but for those who ventured out, it was some of the most exhilarating iceboating of the year. If you have not read the reports check out the CIBC’s site iceboat.me. But be prepared to kick yourself for not taking the drive. The high winds kept myself and others in the pit, but we tried.
The latest Moose chapter unfolded yesterday as Jeff Roseberry and Paul Chamberland set out for Moosehead in the pre-dawn hours, arriving yesterday morning with cautious optimism. Armed with a bit of intel but lacking any recent firsthand reports. No iceboaters had been on Moosehead for two weeks so they approached with measured hope. Their instincts proved correct. Moosehead was sailable! Jeff noted, the lake had finnaly melted down to reveal her original seasons Black Ice. The ice was bordered by a maze of frozen hummocks that formed a makeshift slalom course, that was as challenging as it was thrilling. The ice remained hard throughout the day.
Way to go Jeff and Paul for adding yet another highlight to your log of firsts, lasts and milestones and spreading ice envy across the ice tribe.
What’s next? Do we have another chance at Moosehead or any ice adventures further north in Quebec? Let’s see how the week goes and touch base on Thursday or before. Keep hope alive and let’s squeeze in another day on the ice before we sail on soft water.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
DIY
Iceboaters tend to fall into the DYIers of life category . Maybe it all started way back when with the Bluestreak 60 in Detroit, spurring on many home builders. A vast majority of ice craft that we see, tend to be either home built or purchased from a few skilled builders. Perhaps due to the limited time and places to sail, the sport has scared away the big factory entrepreneurs from hitting the market. Even to find the simple parts is becoming more limited. The first set of plate runners cost me $295 from that old reliable William B Sarns company. I’m not sure who produces them anymore. (I have a few sets so haven’t really been looking.) Thank you Northwind for picking up the slack out east for other hardware. Inset runners tend to be the most seen gear on the lakes, at least in the racing circles. The vintage sailors tend to brag about their “classic” gear such as cast iron, T iron, or iron shod runners, and of course their wooden mast. I will admit to not seeing too many cotton sail these days. I digress though. Even if you bought a starter boat, chances are you had some patching and painting to do. (Although I do know those who have hired this out.)
I think my DIY gene came from both my parents. My dad was a pattern maker by trade and had the tools and the knowledge to take a set of plans and produce a quality product. My mom was constantly sewing clothes for myself and 3 sisters. It only seemed natural that when I finally settled down in ice country that I make my own craft. With at least a dozen new craft and many more rehabs to my name, I still enjoy the Zen of the build. Whether it be hard or softwater, there is nothing half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats. That includes building them too.
This season found me refinishing my super DN after 30 some years of use and abuse and sewing a couple of new sails. One for my wife’s Skimmer, and a second for my friends. (Sailrite gave a good deal if I bought 2 kits. Okay so I didn’t lay out the sails myself, although I do have the book showing me how.) so with the old office counter top revamped as a sewing table, two new sails were completed, in time for the last sail of the season. They’ll be all set for next year as long as they keep the mice out!
My wife drew the line at me buying tools for a metal shop, but I did acquire a stick welder that has produced a few usable items. The grinder helped too. A local, “Maker Space” does have a nice setup if I desperately need to manufacture an obscure part.
So if you have been blessed, (cursed) with the DYI gene, embrace it and set your mind for the meditative zen of Doing It Yourself.
On The Moose Fence For Tomorrow (3/23/25)?
If you are on the fence about traveling to Moosehead tomorrow. Jeff Roseberry is set up and waiting. According to Jeff snow is not a factor. The snow can be brushed away with one’s hand.
Think Ice and remember the season’s end is right in front of you.
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
Sunday Moose (3/23/25)
The word is out from our friends at the Chickawaukie Ice Boat Club (https://iceboat.me/) of Maine. There will be people prepared to sail Moosehead from Greenville boat ramp on Sunday morning @ 9:00 AM.
Looking like it will be cold and breezy. Heed Bill’s cautions and be prepared. For the latest go to https://iceboat.me/.
If anyone was planning on crossing into Canada to sail reach out to me directly and I will pass on contact info to get details directly.
Remember it is going to be a long hot spring, summer, and fall till we are back on the ice again. Questions, ping me.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
Spring and a Final Ice Sailing Window
Spring has been teasing its arrival for weeks, but at 5:01 AM EST today, it’s official. And with it comes the possibility of one last shot on the ice.
Sailable ice is always a moving target, and this time of year brings added uncertainty. What might have looked like the end changes with the updated weather forecast. Currently, Moosehead Lake and a few cross-border locations near Montreal remain in play. But as with all late-season ice sailing, conditions are highly variable. We won’t have a definitive answer for another day or two.
So, hold off on packing away your ice boat gear just yet, there may still be one final ride before the season melts away.
We’ll convene on our conference call at 6:30 p.m. tonight for updates, though we are a day or so from more accurate info. Stay tuned here and on iceboat.me for reports from our friends in Maine.
Think Spring. Think Ice.
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
Spring At Winni
A hopeful group showed up to Brewster Beach in Wolfeboro NH to give Winnipesaukee a shot yesterday.
The ice was about 18” where we checked, a bit of slush on top. Very sailable!
BUT…. Not a bit of breeze. Apart from one or two “sucker puffs” there was nada.
Ah well, it was good to hang out and socialize a bit and we got to see Sean break out his summer wardrobe (you have to admit he’s got the legs for it) and the passing birds made good use of the mastheads!
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Spring Sailing Here & There
Weekend Ice Sailing Report: Spring Conditions Beckon on Winnipesaukee
A dedicated group of ice sailors is set to take on Lake Winnipesaukee this weekend, launching from Brewster Beach in Wolfeboro, N.H. Vice Commodore Charlie Silfvenius has been closely monitoring conditions and believes the spring ice is primed for action with plenty of base ice and a hard(ish) surface to sail. There are no condition guarantees except that if you don’t show up you will not get to sail for sure.
For those who have sailed spring ice, you know the drill. As the sun climbs higher in the sky, conditions can change rapidly—what starts as a firm, fast surface in the morning may soften as the day progresses. The takeaway? Arrive early, rig fast, and get on the ice while it’s at its best. Some boats are already staged in the launch area, ready to capitalize on the prime morning conditions. If you have slush runners, pack them they could prove invaluable as temperatures rise if not don’t worry.
Eyes on Moosehead: Maine’s Next Big Ride?
Bill Buchholz, and other sailors have been racking up miles this week on Lake Pushaw, taking advantage of prime conditions. Now, all eyes are on the remote and expansive Moosehead Lake—one of the NEIYA’s must-sail destinations. If current forecasts hold, Moosehead could be ready for action late next week. If you’re considering the trip, start making plans this is one you won’t want to miss. Don’t forget to check The Chickawaukee Ice Boat Club website, iceboat.me, regularly for the latest happenings in Maine.
Sunapee: The Comeback Continues?
Whispers abound that Lake Sunapee may once again be sailable, with reports of sailors eyeing the ice for tomorrow. As of now, confirmation remains elusive, but we’ll provide updates as soon as more information becomes available.
Sail Fast, Sail Safe, and Embrace Spring Ice
There are no condition guarantees except that if you don’t show up you will not get to sail for sure. Spring ice sailing is a fleeting thrill. Stay safe, sail smart, and enjoy every run. More info as it materializes and we will have our regular call next Thursday 6:30 pm
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
The 2025 International Ice Carousel Attempt
This time of year is always last minute, as most of us know. The big lakes are there, waiting for the early morning attempts. Assemble a group and head north when the call goes out. Sure to be a topic tonight.
Other ice happenings this weekend: The Northern Maine Ice Busters (NMIB) are at it again with another record-breaking Ice Carousel attempt. This year, they’re going international with a spinning disk in the middle of the St. John River, spanning the United States and Canadian border.
I witnessed the world-record disk at 1,777 feet in diameter on Long Lake, St. David, Maine, back in 2023. It was quite a sight—an incredible feat of manpower, technology, and machinery.
This year’s International Ice Carousel is ready to start spinning starting tomorrow at the earliest. Good thing our Passports (Cards) have RFID chips to keep track of our entry and exit as the disk spins in the middle of the St. John.
An International Feat of Ice and Engineering
The NMIB are gearing up for their most ambitious project yet: the 2025 International Ice Carousel Attempt. March 14-16, 2025, this groundbreaking event will be held on the St. John River, bridging Van Buren, Maine, and St. Leonard, New Brunswick. Here is a link about the carousel construction
This attempt is unique not only for its scale but also for its international collaboration. NMIB plans to carve and rotate a massive 207-foot-wide ice carousel, marking the first time an ice carousel will span two countries. This effort is more than just an engineering challenge—it’s a symbol of unity and community spirit across borders.
The NMIB team hopes to attract visitors from both the U.S. and Canada, fostering cross-border connections and celebrating the region’s rich winter traditions.
So, grab your passports and keep driving past Loring AFB, site of many landsailing regattas, to the Crown of Maine—this is one icy adventure you won’t want to miss!
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
Sunnapee Comes Through, Yet Again
For iceboaters, planning never stops. Off-season, we build, acquire, and refine equipment. As ice forms, we tune rigs, align chocks, and keep a go-bag ready to travel at a moment’s notice.
Non-iceboaters have asked why there is a boom and sail in my dining room and boxes of runners in my hallway holds a boom and runners. The answer is simple: to be ready and well, the light is best in the dining room.
That readiness was on display last weekend at Lake Sunapee. A seasoned crew, were ready to inspect the unsailed surface. It had only been visually inspected—no skates, no sails—but their instincts said go. They were right. The ice held, and the sailing was on.
Hats off to these intrepid sailors, who embody iceboating’s core: calculated risk, trust in preparation, and the relentless pursuit of the perfect ride. Below are their experience from Sunday and Monday
Five of us sailed Sunapee on Sunday – Kate, Bob S, David, Jim and myself. Ice fisherman there had 30″ of ice. Surface was a bit rough but we were able to sail from the state beach through the narrows and across the main lake. Great day! Some of the group went back early on Monday but I’ll leave that to them to update. Peter
We were able to sail all the way to the north end of the lake today. It was a fast trip up and back, we were done by 11:15 and the ice had turned to a soft slush fast. There were 4 of us. We didn’t waste time working our way back south covering eighteen miles round trip.
Kate Marone
Sunrise Tuesday morning temp 27: the surface looks better than yesterday, very little wind and close to 50 today.
We spoke to a fisherman yesterday, he said there is 30 inches of ice near great island, there should be more sailing in the future.
The launch at the beach is very good, keep your eye on the weather and take a chance if it looks good.
Bob S
P.S. On the way home there was a nordic skater at Newbury, the ice looked good.
Fast, Fleeting, and Frozen Rewards
A thaw-and-refreeze cycle provided prime—if fleeting—conditions across New England. Sailors took to the ice in multiple locations, making the most of what could be one of the season’s final rides.
Massabesic Lake, NH: A Morning of Speed Before the Slush
A dozen or so iceboats—DNs, Whizzes, Skimmers, and skate sailors—buzzed across Massabesic Lake in the early hours, powered by a strong morning breeze. As is often the case with late-season ice, conditions deteriorated quickly, with the surface softening by midday and turning the gathering into a social affair.
Special thanks go to Dick B. for scouting and relaying intel for the group. Without his keen eye and timely reports, the sailing wouldn’t have been possible.
The early hours provided prime conditions for speed, but by 11 a.m., the westerly gusts and slushy surface made control increasingly difficult. The ice, though rough, was deemed safe aside from a few small open patches in the northeast corner. Remember no ice is completely safe. Writup based on info relayed by Chip Goodhue. DN 1300.
Lake Champlain, NY: Scratch Racing on Black Ice
On the western shore of Lake Champlain, DNers Paul Chamberland (KC5700) and Jeff Roseberry (US5687) continued their relentless pursuit of speed and precision. The duo spent the day locked in a series of scratch races, pushing their boats and skills on an expanse of stunning black ice. Few sailors have logged as much time on the course this season, and their commitment was evident in every tack and gybe. And I am sure will show on the starting line next season.
Lake Champlain, VT: Inner Malletts Bay Delivers Miles
Further north in Vermont, John Zierman and a small contingent took to Inner Malletts Bay, determined to make the most of what could be the season’s final weekend. With miles under their blades, they sailed deep into the afternoon, and hope the ice will hold for just a little longer.
Elsewhere in New England and the Northeast
Reports of sailing on Damariscotta Lake in Maine are still incoming, though details remain scarce. Lake George in NY was sailed from nearly end to end in epic winds. Look for info in Facebook Group “Iceboats of Saratoga NY region“
For those who made the effort to venture out on Sunday, the rewards were well worth it. Iceboating is never a sport of convenience; it demands patience, persistence, and a willingness to chase fleeting windows of ideal conditions. As temperatures fluctuate in the coming days, the larger lakes may still offer another chance. For those craving one last ride, the time is now.
Carpe Glacies, more opportunities may materialize but only if you show up and yes it will likely be last minute. Don’t pack up your gear just yet and be ready to travel at a moments notice.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
More Opportunities
Couple more ice reports to consider for tomorrow or Monday. From VP Charles Silfvenius.
Rechecked Wentworth. Top layer is more solid. I can still chop through but it takes effort. Checked off Albee beach and the 109 launch. I would call it sailable. Still tight to shoreline. I think I’ll try a sail there tomorrow probably in the skimmer.
Will try to round someone up to check Winni too.
Jeff Roseberry with Paul Chamberlain are out scouting Champlain at Button Bay.
And do not forget Bill Buchholz has called Damariscotta. Details on iceboat.me
Think Ice and get it while it lasts. It’s gonna get warm next week.
John
John@neiya.org
Quaboag & Webster
Tried to get on Quaboag today but the shoreline is melted away, i can see water in some of the pressure cracks and a few small holes.
The plate is shifting because there is no shore to but up against .We may be done for the season unless there’s a big change.
Webster has the same conditions, no need to get hurt on bad ice when we may have sailing up north.
Bob S
Weekend Ice Updates
Inner Mallets Bay: According to John Zierman, Inner Mallets Bay is currently sailable, with a decent surface and no known hazards. However, the launch area at the state boat ramp is somewhat rough.
Lake Massabesic: The ice remains sailable with a solid base measuring between 10 and 18 inches. However, sailors should remain cautious, as drain holes and other hazards have been reported. A full scouting of the area is recommended before sheeting in for speed.
Wolfeboro Bay, Lake Winnipesaukee: Conditions are rough, with shell ice in some areas and slush or water trapped between the base ice and surface. Sailors are advised to seek better conditions elsewhere.
As always, safety is paramount. With spring approaching, ice conditions can change rapidly. Stay alert and sail with caution.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
Conditions Under Review
Our call last night reaffirmed a familiar pattern: Recent weather has once again pushed our potential ice conditions into “must-check-and-confirm” status. That’s exactly what we’ll be doing today and Saturday.
Several lakes have experienced surface wetting and are undergoing inspections over the next 36 hours. Areas of focus include Webster, Quaboag, Massabesic, Winnipesaukee, and Great Sacandaga (N.Y.), with potential assessments also in Dameriscotta and Bantam.
Be sure to monitor iceboat.me for conditions in Maine as well as Facebook group Iceboats of Saratoga NY region for Adirondack NY regional ice info.
Expect further updates through Saturday as conditions develop. If the outlook holds, Sunday and the coming week could present fresh opportunities.
There may be an icy kind of flu spreading in the region next week. Stay tuned.
Remember, ice is never 100% safe, particularly as we enter into spring conditions. Our ice can turn to nothing in a very short time, so be vigilant and be safe.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
Back on the Ice Soon
As expected, it’s been a mild and occasionally wet stretch, with just enough warmth to soften and wet out the surface but not quite enough to get us back on the big lake ice this week.
That said, there are a couple of bright spots: Quaboag Pond and Webster Lake, both under the watchful eye of our intrepid scout, Bob S. A cold snap is here and should help firm things up with potential opportunities this Sunday. Not tomorrow as the ice needs another day to set up. If you head to Webster, be sure to swing by Waterfront Mary’s for a coffee or a beer. They have supported us so lets turn the favor.
We’re also keeping tabs on a few other regional spots, including Bantam Lake in Connecticut and Lake Massabesic in New Hampshire. If things take a turn for the better, we’ll be sure to share the good news.
As we transition from meteorological to astronomical spring, one thing is certain: caution is key. The ice is in decline, and a night or two of freezing temperatures won’t bring back the solid black ice of midseason.
I checked Quaboag this morning and the snow is gone, the ice is wetting out, two trucks on the ice on the left side of the ramp.
The parkinglot is almost bare, but the ramp has ice standing up, it may lay down by the weekend, there is good ice bout sides of the parking lot.
Webster also is snow free,and i’ve been working on the access by Waterfront Marys, it should be good enough to back up to the ice by the weekend.
The narrows from middle pond to south pond are still in good shape, cold weather Sunday and Monday.
There should be enough wind to run around the islands like two weeks ago.
Bob S
Stay patient, stay safe, and keep the Ice Faith—there’s still a chance we get one last run before the season slips away.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
It’s Zamboni Time…
Pre-Spring’s fickle touch is in full effect, and all eyes are on our big lakes along with a few smaller ones that still hold suitable thickness. With daytime temperatures consistently above freezing and overnight refreezes, conditions are in flux. A bit of precipitation is expected Thursday to help the resurface process, but come Friday and into the weekend, colder air will return, firming up softened surfaces and if luck is on our side offering up a large sailing surface.
That said, smaller lakes and ponds won’t fare as well. The rapid swings in temperature mean they simply won’t recover to a safe, sailable state. These venues won’t survive the volatility, so don’t take unnecessary risks.
Stay tuned, keep your gear ready, and be prepared to travel on short notice. Follow the forecasts closely, and join us tomorrow night at 6:30 for the latest updates, a recap of the past week including Bob S’s youth (Scout) outreach last Saturday, and an open discussion on all things iceboating.
This is our community. Let’s stay connected.
Think Ice,
John
DN2023
John@neiya.org
Kids on Ice – Quaboag and Watuppa
Spectators and fellow sailors shared in the excitement and enthusiasm of seeing several youth sailing on Quaboag in Massachusetts and Watuppa in Fall River, MA. Chad Atkins’s son, Mason, was rounding marks in his Opti DN. Brian Langley’s teenage daughter, Bella, was cruising the lake her mini-whizz. Bob S. and Bob Haag helped a group of three girls from scout troop 1175 from Simsbury, CT build their own ice boat on Quaboag.
Bob S., fully prepared as always, brought his sidecar and put on his "skunners" (Ski-like Runners) so each scout and their leader could enjoy a ride around the pond. Bob Haag was especially impressed that while the leader was getting a ride the young ladies, hauled a pile of wood, a couple of hand saws and other tools, a sunfish rig, and built an ice boat perfect for the Styrofoam conditions. After a day of sailing the troop headed on their way to enjoy a winter camp out.
Bob H. said he was particularly excited to see the kids working on a project, having fun, and seeing their parents supporting them.
Enjoy the photos from Quaboag! Great day for so many…
2 X4s, skis, and a sunfish rig.
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Bob’s skunners. Look aft and you will note the ski like flat edge and the plate runner sitting inside the body of the skunner. Clever!
In a final note, Watuppa is likely done for the season with open water, leads, and some significant holes. I know Bob S. will continue to check and report on Quaboag.
There is still plenty of thick ice to the north and we just have to be patient for the snow to melt. As my son, Luke, said one evening desperately wanting to try out his brother’s new birthday tricycle, "It’s hard being patient." Yes, it is.
Best,
Karen Binder
Secretary
Checking Where The Snow Isn’t
While most of New England’s lakes and ponds remain buried under layers of snow, we continue to search for ice. A small group will be scouting and assessing the ever-changing conditions on Watuppa tomorrow Saturday 2/21.
Another possibility is Webster Lake, as reported by Bob S. last night. However, launching may be challenging, and a fishing derby is underway, which could complicate access.
Meanwhile, an iceboat demonstration for a group of Scouts is planned on Quaboag. As of now, the ice has not been confirmed as sailable, but boat(s) will be displayed onshore regardless. If you’re available, come by and help spread the word—setup begins at 11 a.m. on Saturday. Bob could use some help so get out to Quaboag for a couple hours.
A reminder: Although we’ve had a stretch of cold days, the lengthening daylight signals the transition to spring ice conditions. Ice is in a constant state of flux, and shorelines are beginning to pull away. this is especially true of bodies of water in the southern regions of New England. I this time of year is here today and gone tomorrow. Stay safe—never venture out alone, and treat all ice with caution until it has been thoroughly evaluated.
Speaking of spring we have eyes on our bigger lakes and maybe just maybe with a couple thaw and freeze cycles big lakes like Winni might make themselves available for a right around the corner Spring event.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
Finding Ice Here & There
Winter in New England has never been easy, especially for those in pursuit of the elusive perfect ice. While the past week’s weather may have discouraged some, seasoned ice boaters know the game: patience, persistence, and a keen eye on the conditions. This season has already seen the revival of classic venues—some long dormant—stretching from the New England states into the Hudson Valley and the Adirondacks. With such a vast expanse of possibilities, the challenge isn’t just finding the ice—it’s getting there.
Today, eyes are on Wattupa Pond in Fall River, where scouts are out assessing conditions. Early reports are promising, and we’ll have a clearer assessment today and tomorrow. Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops.
Meanwhile, a local Scout troop in Massachusetts is set to camp near Quaboag Pond this Saturday and has expressed interest in an ice boating demonstration. While the ice’s sailability remains uncertain, volunteers interested in sharing the sport are encouraged to coordinate with event leader Caryn on our Thursday call. We will have our usual ice checkers in attendence for any questions etc.
There are also reports of good ice on Budd Lake off Rt 80 in NJ as well as up on the Hudson in Athens, NY. There should be a good variety of all styles of iceboats old and new for those interested in some variety.
For those ready to chase the ice, this could be the week. Stay sharp, stay safe, and keep an eye on the forecast.
Bob S. has been scouting locally two days ago and offers his observations.
Stopped by Quaboag today, some grey ice and some snow, it could come around in a few days, not sailable yet .temp today 20: wind 40 + snow squalls
Webster was all greyed out with 1/5 of frozen slush with 1/5 wet slush under the top layer, looks promising will check again tomorrow.Access is messed up at Marys and parkinglot is not plowed , but can be carried on,access from 193 at waterski club has some spots to get on.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
Snow, Ice, and Sailing: A Midwinter Check-In
The good news: It’s still winter. A winter that, for the most part, has behaved in a more traditional way than not. Looking back, many of our usual haunts delivered this year. Long Pond and S. Watuppa held strong, as did Webster, Quaboag, and Bantam. Even Red Bank, N.J., and the Hudson made brief but notable appearances.
The bad: We’re blanketed in snow, the result of back-to-back fronts, with another system on the way this weekend.
Let’s see what the weekend’s weather brings. Discussions last night suggested possible sailing opportunities by midweek. If you’re looking to satisfy your inner weather geek, check out Severe Weather Europe—if it’s not already part of your regular reading.
We also have an upcoming ice boat youth education opportunity next Saturday. More details early next week.
Until then, think ice—and, even more importantly, think resurfacing on the good ice that’s out there waiting.
Keep the faith,
John
john@neiya.org
Quaboag & Webster Status
Stopped by Webster and Quaboag and they are snow free,it will be below freezing around 6 this evening and be freezing all day tomorrow .
Winds are suppose to be 10 -11 tomorrow. A chance to get some sailing in before the next snow.
Check weather for Webster ma and Brookfield ma.
Ice needs to be checked but looks promising.
Bob S.
Day 2…15-20 Knots – Five Races Today
Big wind day on Winnebago…JR Francis actually used another descriptive phrase when I asked if he was going to use his 90s or 95s, "My 90s…it’s Nuking."
And so it was…Jeff Roseberry who loves Big Wind did a consistent job of being in the Top 5 and Paul Chamberland, found a new higher gear after hearing some advice from Matt Struble on leeward Mark rounding…to ease your sail as much as needed so you don’t skid on your runners…I didn’t know that tip before my third race of the day and provided lots on entertainment by spinning out..not once but twice..on the same leeward Mark. Pat said my double pirouette was worthy of an award.
Everyone from New England is giving it their best and learning a lot…I know we are tired tonight.
Lighter winds predicted tomorrow. The results are posted
Long Pond Came Through
NEIYA members cut across all iceboating activities. As reported by Secretary Karen Binder and others we have a good showing at the DN Worlds on lake Winnebago. But of course ice activities go on back home whenever possible. Proving yet again the best ice is heavily weighted towards that closest to your back door. And often not something that can be planned in advance. Note, Bob S’s scouting mission to Webster also turned into a good day of sailing.
Rewards come to those that venture out. And many scouting trips are a bust but the rewards can be good and sometimes great.
Brian Langley reports on a group that had a successful day on Long Pond yesterday.
Long pond today. Lite winds till 2pm then switch and came up. We managed 27 miles and top speed at around 39mph. Winds built to around 7mph till 3.30. One big lead we marked out.
Note observed hazard on Long Pond and a reminder that no ice is ever completely safe
I’ll be heading out to the other Winne, Lake Winnebago in 90 min. The Silver fleet starts out with their second race followed by gold’s second and Bronze’s third and so on. But first I have to pack up as I must change hotels today. One of the joys of traveling, dealing with the unexpected.
From Fond Du Lac, Think Ice and hopefully melt that white stuff off out New England lakes before I return.
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
P. S. I’ll have pictures of NEIYA competitors soon.
New England Ice Yacht Association 