August 10-11, 2024 – Gull Lake
The fun-loving sailors of Gull Lake welcomed their guests at this regatta’s launch site-Michigan State University’s Kellogg Biological Station on the east shore of Gull Lake. Boats were unloaded, rigs set up, and then the “hawk” came in! Huge onshore breeze of 20-30 mph precluded launching and racing. An early postponement until 2:00 pm on Saturday was made in hopes of the wind easing off, but it did not.
Gail Turluck then led a single halyard Jens Rig clinic and reviewed outhaul and Cunningham set up and use. By then it was time to go for refreshments and dinner at NEDS on Gull Lake. Next on the schedule was a party at the Turluck residence featuring the Booze Dragons Band! Sunday dawned early with all sailors hopeful and eager to get on the water. The wind was light! The forecast called for a stiff breeze again, so boats were rigged promptly and left shore in building winds to get the series going.
The racing was very tight, with multiple leaders in each race and position changes on the last leg in all races, too. The wind was WNW 8-13, shifty and puffy, giving opportunity to play shifts and find pressure to improve position or endure a poor choice and fall back.
Four races were held on Sunday. It was mostly cloudy with temperatures in the upper 60s. A bonus of the cool conditions, clouds and breeze is it kept many powerboats, wake boats and jet skis home! Our crack Race Committee, Rick Kohl and Greg Muliett, set the race course and reeled off four races before the 1:00 pm cutoff. Finishes were so close it was unclear at the boat park who the winner was. After scores were compiled it was easy to understand the wonder—the top four boats were separated by three points! Tight racing, fair racing, led to local Larry Carter claiming the 2024 title!—Gail Turluck
Contact our Commodore at commodore@gulllakesailingclub.org for details.