Seven Michigan sailors and two 420s left Ann Arbor for Evanston, IL for Northwestern's Spring Regatta last Friday night. After an exciting adventuring driving through downtown Chicago towing to boats as no trailers are allowed on Lake Shore Drive, the team finally made it to their host houses just before midnight.
Conditions Saturday proved to be warmer and sunnier (45 degrees) than any team members had sailed in yet this season. With winds out of the northwest at 10-15 mph, it was a return back to midwestern sailing for the team. The race committee changed the course during the first race, resulting in the race having to be thrown out. After a long day of sailing (with As on the water for more than six hours), the team had a fantastic dinner at That Little Mexican Café before turning in for some much needed sleep.
Sunday was sunny and 55, with winds starting out from the south and shifting to the southwest. As and Bs each completed one rotation in the morning before the weather turned cloudy. As went back out at 12:45 for one additional rotation to make up for the race thrown out the previous day.
The A fleet came off the water at 1:30, and four Michigan sailors raced to derig and undress so they could make it back in time for a playoff broomball game at 7PM. They were on the road by 2PM thanks to help loading the boats from Wisco sailors, and after four hours of non-stop driving arrived at Yost Ice Arena two minutes before they're game was scheduled to start (which they won).
The weekend resulted in renewed sealegs and sunburns, with team members showing improvement next week. Thanks to Northwestern for hosting another great regatta!
-Sarah Sloan '16
