Recent discussions in Dun Laoghaire saw strong interest from racers to re-animate the event, with proposals for an adjusted course, a requirement for pre-entry acceptance of terms and conditions, and potential incorporation into one of the Dun Laoghaire clubs' summer schedules. As before we'd use the DBSC marks, although the DBSC itself can't necessarily participate in organizing the event.
The main discussion point for the moment is the route.
The original route, in red, went right around Dalkey Island and back along the coast. But with very fluky wind in the sound and the chance of high waves at the back of the island it often led to either slow times or simply prudent abandonment.
Two alternates have been suggested. One is to use the Muglins instead of Dalkey Island. The other is to use the DBSC's Island Mark.
Have a look at the map (you'll have to zoom in a little). The detailed courses are below.
Option 1: ----------
Start
Bulloch Mark - Port
Island Mark - Port or Starboard
Bulloch Mark - Starboard
Finish
Total approx 8.5 km
Option 2: ----------
Start
Bulloch Mark - Port
Island Mark - Port
Muglins - Port or Starboard
Island Mark - Starboard
Bulloch Mark - Starboard
Finish
Total approx 10 km
We want to hear suggestions, pros and cons, before moving ahead. Put your comments below!
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Unless the Muglins also suffers from large waves, I think the "Island Trial" should go around an island. Just saying!
ReplyDeleteComment received from Neil O'Toole. Blogger wasn't taking his post.
ReplyDelete____________________________________
"The island trial is about sailing around Dalkey Island. People have been doing it for years and they will continue to do so, whether recorded, compared or not. There is an obvious risk associated with the route. By undertaking the route, sailors are accepting the (personal) risk. There is a similar risk undertaken by going sailing alone or with mates in Dublin bay without rescue every day...there is little difference. The route is straight forward and should be basic and non suggestive, harbour mouth, around island and back. Any more specific may open designer to liability...........
Providing a platform for comparative routes and times is only serving to show others the best way to successfully complete the route.
I understand the website authors concerns... But they are encouraging positive exercise and not a lethal madman's expedition to hell".