rolex regatta

The east end of St. Thomas was buzzing with boats, people and extra traffic to and from the St. Thomas Yacht Club this weekend.

There were 90 boats in this regatta - and both Mark and I had the chance to work on race committee - volunteering over the three days of racing.

I went out on Friday - working on the committee boat. There were eight classes - so that meant eight race starts for two races. From J-24s to a Frers 80 and Andrews 68 - there was some amazing sailing to watch. Having said that and despite some serious distractions, there were times to record and sequence flags to hold up. There was no lounging in the cockpit drinking rum cocktails while watching the race. No sir. In fact, I made the mistake of bringing my camera out on a couple of occasions between my official duties - before realizing that this was not the time to be sneaking photos. In fact, there was a fairly stiff breeze around 20-25 knots and some large rolling waves. Our committe boat was a 47-foot catamaran - and the motion slowly turned a few people interesting shades of green.

Mark worked on a different committee boat with the IC-24s laying marks over two of the days and also had a great time, meeting a number of interesting local people.

Other than sailing and drooling over boats, we have had a busy few days preparing for our business close. Today Mark and I made our way to the laywer's office - hopefully for the last time for a while - where we signed the final papers. Tomorrow we drive to work and start our new venture as the new owners. It will be a very different week - exciting and terrifying - and there will be a lot to learn.

Max has started his school and trundles off with his little knapsack and lunch kit. He is slowly adjusting and finding sufficient transporation-themed toys to occupy his time.

Off to get some extra sleep and will report more soon.