Kona Race "Broadcast"

[konajoe]

A small group races Konas on Galveston Bay at 7 Central every Wednesday. Most folks are on the water at 6:30. You can take a live look at this race using the following link: http://www.saltwater-recon.com/kemah-seabrook/

It's an interesting gizmo that seems to let you control a camera. If you pan down, you'll see the launch and start area near the docks. The prevailing wind is onshore. The first leg is almost always upwind toward one of the red channel markers near the horizon.

The reason I bring this to y'all's attention is that there have been threads on this forum discussing getting a Kona planing in marginal conditions. The winds are only expected to be 10-12. Some of the hotshots may be able to plane as they are free sailing before the races, and between the races. Some may be able to pick something up by watching.

[konajoe]

The forecast for the race on Wednesday, July 19 is only 10mph. If anyone gets a Kona planing in that, one would definitely want to try to figure out what they're doing. On the water at 6:30 central. Racing starts at 7.

[konajoe]

Another race tonight. Same link. Marginal planing conditions. The Kona class uses different sails for different sailor weights. Light weights and heavy weights of equal ability will have the same planing threshold. The better sailors will be able to plane when a lesser sailor can't. Look at foot placement, body position, etc.