HocusPocus

2010-10-19T14:12:00.002+02:00

GOOD BYE GREAT BOAT
In March A foregin owner purchased HP.. He promptly took his new acuisition sailing overseas.. Hope to see her again in SA waters one day..
HP was a great boat which took all who sailed on her on great advertures, crossed the oceans, sailed to Mozambique and Namibia, Mossel BAy and all the regular stuff. Sailed in over 50knots of wind at times.. She never let us down.. What a great boat.. We wish her new owners great sailing and destinantion with her.. Bon Voyage..

2010-02-12T11:36:00.003+02:00

WED Night Race 10 Feb 2010
We left the harbour latish.. We got a fairly good start, unfotunately a 50 footer who was below us, but faster slowly started to sail a bit higher then the next mark casuing us to sail higher and then th rest of the fleet forcing us to sail in dirty airs for a long period of time.. This was costly.. On the downwind we worked hard to hold our position as the boat behind us was faster then us.. We worked the puffs and swell. Goood gybe, kept focussed on the next mark working the boat. We did a great rounding at the next mark and sailed a good line.. If anything we might have overstood the finish mark ever so slightly.. We came 2nd overall which was not bad. The winds topped at about 23knots, boat went well. Aboard were: Dale, Ian, Dennis, Sieger, Michael and Sarel.

2010-02-05T16:52:00.002+02:00

WED NIGHT RACE -3rd Feb 2010
Nice 10 not breeze. We were out testing our new mainsail. We got off to a good start and held our own to the "weather mark" we sailed a good downwind but ended up putting too many gybes in as we got to the leeward mark as we wanted to keep our air clear. In the end it did not pay opff and it cost us. The next leg had us sailing low as our navigator felt that the rest of the fleet was sailing too high. The result of which we ended up not laying the next mark, we lost some space here. The final beat was flukey with as taking a middle of the road course watching the water carefully.. in the end we caught up a bit with some of the boats ahead but Freedom went for the extreme left and gained on us and the rest of the fleet, leaving them to win on corrected time and us coming third. We were extremly happy with the new mainsail. Aboard were: Dale, Ian, Dennis, Sarel, Kate, Gavin, Sieger and Michael. Boat peformed well.

2010-01-05T16:07:00.001+02:00

With The Mykonos Race coming up, herewith a couple of pics from the last race... HP is the defending champion of this event......

2009-12-19T11:04:00.002+02:00

CROCS Cont...

Race:3

With the Sunday racing being cancelled due to very windy conditions.. 50 knots plus.. we had only the Wednesday for racing leaving no chance of a discard.. The morning race was started in a light SW.. We got a good start, being a slower boat the larger yachts quickly rolled us leaving us in their "dirties", it took a while to get upto full speed again.. After this we sailed but we struggled in the lulls.. In the end we ended 11th in this race making it one of our worst races of the year.. Between races we went and anchored in Grainger Bay.

Race 4:

The breeze had freshened at about 14knots or so.. We got a good start, sailed well and managed to hold the kite on a tight reach when some of the other yachts could not... In the end we won this race quite convincingly..

Overall we can 5th. It was nice to have the full racing crew aboard.. Also nice having the full 9 aboard..

2009-12-15T10:46:00.003+02:00

CROCS REGATTA -December 2009

CREW: Dale, Ian, Dennis, Sieger, Michael, Sarel, Deon, Riaan, Neville.
Unfortunately we did not have time to train for this event, so we approached it with the intention of having some good sailing and lots of fun, getting ourselves back into the swing of bouy racing as we do not do much of it on HP..

RACE 1:
Winds were around 20knots at the start. We got an excellent start, however as we were grinding on we sheared bolts on our genoa track and had therefore were unable to sheet in for the full startboard beat which meaned that we lost some height.. We managed to make a plan by using our outer track thereafter.. We were very rusty on the spinnaker hoist which lost us some time but we managed a good gybe in freshening breeze. We made some errors at the drop which cost us some more time. Our beats were good, but we lost out again with a "way too early drop on the next leg.. The winds peaked at about 30 knots.. boat handled well. Noticed a the guy cleats were not refitted after the respray so this was held by hand.. in the end we came 3rd in this race.. Not bad considering we were a bit rusty..

RACE 2:
After having spent around an hour anchored in Granger Bay in windless conditions, we went out to race again.. it was blowing just short of 30 knots.. We managed an excellent start but almost immediately we found ourselves over powered, this kept stalling us.. We debated and decided to put in a reef, as soon as we completed this we noted a huge tear in the main just above the reef point, so we decided to put another reef in. While we were busy with this the main tore again, leaving us no alternative but to drop the sail... We decided to continue racing, not bad since we were only a few hundred metres off the start line... We lost lots of time on the beat due to us struggling with the main.. on the downwind we took it easy.. the winds were gusting 40knots... lots of boats did granny tacks at the leeward so we made up a bit there.. On the beat we managed to sail through a faster boats lee due to them being over powered.. they passed us again on the downwind but we got through them while they grannied.. We then pulled away from them on the final leg. Most of the fleet retired due to breakages or the strong conditions.. So although we did not do well, we still maintained some points.. we came 7th in the race.

2009-12-15T10:35:00.001+02:00

WED 9th December 2009 -FUN RACE

2009-12-07T12:01:00.002+02:00

FLAG OFFICERS RACE - 5 December 2009
We were contacted by the Honarary treasurer to take part int he Flag Officers Race as a member of his team.. We met early to use the time to prep the boat for Crocs Raggata. We removed any unneccessary items aboard and prepared our racing inventory.. We completed some of the maintainance items aboard at the same time. Afterwhich we went out sailing. A SW was blowing, around 9-12knots.. Good start, good first leg. Unfortunately we had to dip a moving ship which allowed those behind us to catch up a bit. 3rd around the weather mark. Good Kite hoist. We sailed this leg well with one Gybe which was well executed. AL sails a lot faster then us on the downwind and got through us. On the beat we ended up tacking early which cost us two places.. We used the Code Zero on the last leg. We came 3rd on corrected time and our team came third. On board were: Dennis, Michael, Sarel, Sieger, Riaan and Dale. Boat performed well with no problems.. Deon was down before racing to help with the alteration to the traveller...

2009-11-26T14:07:00.002+02:00

RACE 5-Wed nite
Starting in about 11knots. Got a great start, lots of speed out on the right side of the line. Soon afterwards the wind became lighter. The boats that started on the other side of the line were in a slightly different wind band. We decided to stick to our plan as the wind was bending. By the time we tacked back the boats on the other side of the course had slightly stronger breeze which helped pull them through. We managed to pull some places and distance back on the downwind leg... but not enough. We came 4th overall. Aboard were: Ian, Dale, Sieger, Michael, Sarel, Rian, Neville -Guests-Wanita and Grant Ballintine. Nice evening out on the bay.

2009-11-06T14:48:00.002+02:00

Random pic of the new look deck.

2009-11-06T14:45:00.002+02:00

WED NITE: RACE 4
Nice NW, unfirtunatel a bit of a soldiers course giving only one beat, we rounded the weather mark on Freedom's hip and pretty much stayed there for the entire race as there was no way of overtaking on a soldiers course unless one wants to go into a luffing duel which would in essense only worsen one' corrected times against the rest of the fleet. Boat went well. Aboard were: Dale, Sarel, Deon, Siger, Neville, Ste Jay, Mary Anne.

2009-11-06T14:41:00.002+02:00

WED NITE:RACE 3
With Race 2 not being sailed due to it being cancelled due to strong winds...
Ian and Dale were away in China at a regatta leaving Sarel in charge. By al reports they had a 20 knot South Easter, just before the start they had a pin come loose at the gooseneck with them scurrying to rectify which they managed to do just before the start gun, unfortunately they had to fall down on the line which did not give them an ideal start. In the end they came 7th on corrected time which was not bad considering, also the times were very close. Well done. Aboard were: Sarel, Neville, Michael, Siger and Deaon.

2009-10-22T11:31:00.002+02:00

ROUND ROBBEN ISLAND RACE
This is a pusuit race. You also get to choose whioch way to round the island which gives an interesting permentation to the whole race. Two other identical Farrs started with us. We were first out the blocks. Nice South Easter, kite up, nice sailing but we were aware of the wind switch up ahead. We sailed well but perhaps carried the kite too long before hotting up. We rounded the island well but then overstood the island giving it a too wider a berth whcih also cost. The rest of the leg was a soldiers course but we then entered a hole close tot he finish line. We were doing well at this point and well ahead of those that rounded the island in the opposite direction. We spent a long time in the hole. While this was happening the boats that rounded in the opposite direction were able to sail a lower course keeping them in good breeze the whole way. We eventually got the breeze and finished. Our position was 14th in the end. Winds were varied but the highest was mid teens. Sea was flattish. Aboard were: Dale, Michael, Siger, Massimo, Francesco, Spook, Tony. Boat performed well. No problems.

2009-10-22T11:26:00.002+02:00

WED NITE- RACE:1, 14th October 2009
First race of the new series and of the new season. We had a reasonable start and did fairly well to the weathermark. We sailed the downwind a bit lower then the fleet with us losing out a bit as they picked up the new puffs first. Good rounding at the leeward mark with us having to concentrate on making up some time. It was lightish conditions with a slop. We struggled for dirve in the boat. In the end we managed a 4th on corrected time. Aboard were: Dale, Ian, Siger, Michael, Sarel, Neville. Boat went well.

2009-10-09T12:27:00.003+02:00

WED NITE FUN RACE
With the new season upon us, the first Wednesday night race was a fun race(not part of the series). There was a light breeze of between 6-11knots and a bit of a slop which does not help.
We got an excellent start on the line in the best place, our sisterships were way off the mark. We managed to round the first bouy first ahead of the faster boats and poled out for Milnerton mark. The rest of the fleet rounded and tired to two sail reach for the mark, we were the only ones to use the pole which we carried till almost at the mark. We pulled a lot using the pole on the downwind. We rounded and beat back to the weather mark suffering a bit in the slop and the lulls with one of the faster boats steadily closing the gap on us.. We still managed to round weather mark first and cross the finish line first. We won on handicap. Aboard were: Dale, Ian,Dennis, Massimo, Sarel. The boat performed well. Everyone was pleased to be sailing again.

2009-10-09T12:21:00.003+02:00

BACK SAILING
After almost 4 months of HP not sailing due to other committements and a Deck Respray job that was done at a snails pace and in fact the finishing touches are still in progress we finally did a quick " sea trial" last week in rain and about 25 knots of wind with a confused sea.. NW wind, SW swell. Boat performed well. This was followed up by an idealic sail around the new wreck on Dolphin Beach the follwing week. We experienced no problem sailing around and in fact it would make a good anchorage in the lee in certain conditions.. Boat is looking really good and feels more modern and new again... NICE

2009-06-08T10:53:00.002+02:00

PORTUGAL DAY RACE 6 June 2009
Since the Easter regatta in SimonsTown HP has only been out once or twice socially so it was nice to get her out on the water again. The race was a pursuit race with 46 entries. A lumpy sea was running. In the starting area the winds were around 18 which was great but we felt that it would progressively drop off as we sailed further to the weather mark area which was Barker Rock. In any event, we got off the line on time at a good pace. The winds did hold off but we were able to hold our own until just past the Pavilion area where it dropped further and with our sail configuration we started to suffer especially with the sea state the way it was. We did a hitch offshore to connect with the new breeze but we had lost out a lot prior to this with the larger boats able to pull through. Good rounding of Barker and a good Kite sail back to the finish with us trying to defend our finish piosition. The boat performed well off wind in the swells. We finished up 12th which is fair considering the conditions were less then optimal for our boat. Aboard were: Siger, Ian, Michael, Deon, Sarel, Leroy, Tony C, Dale.

2009-04-20T09:10:00.001+02:00

A Pic of the Trophies that were won over the last few months...

Pics taken by Ian Coward, the custodian of all the trophies...

2009-04-14T09:05:00.002+02:00

DELIVERY SimonsTown to Cape Town 13/04/09
Siger provided the lift to Simonstown. It was blowing just on 20 knots from the SE in the moorings while preparing. By the time HP motored out the wind had dropped so the full main and a number 3 was raised. Rounded the Bullnose at 8am. Started to beat in about 16 knots. Just past Romans Rock the wind was up which neccessitated putting in a reef. A little while later a bolt on the Kicking strap sheared which neccesitated doing a repair. It must be noted that at this time the sea was up and the winds were just below 30 knots which had the boat awash and hanging onto the mast while doing the repair. After this HP kept on beating taking a conservative route to the point. Eventurally tacked for the point overstanding intentionally as the wave condition was up and it would allow for a better approach. The winds had risen to 35 knots and the boat was being tossed around. Eventually was able to fetch off a little which improved the motion and speed. Furtantel closer to the point the winds dropped to just under 25 knots. Rounded the point and reached off at nice speeds, less water coming over the decks. Decided to go below only to find the floor boards afloat and the bout very wet.. The casue, unbeknow the hatches were all still on breath and with the boat having a very wet sail for the 2.5 hours to the point the water was able to enter... Fortunately HP has Electric pumps as well as manuel so on with the switch. It took a long time to pump in any event. Bailed out the areas the pump does not cover and made the boat drying. Then gybed for Slangkop and reached down the costline passing the Tall Ship Europa en route as they were sailing upwind. CLosing in on Kabonkelberg tyhe wind started to die with HP having to resort to motor for the rest of the leg. Rounded the harbout wall 8 hours after start. Aboard were: Dale. Only problems was the sheared bolt on the Kicker and the water in the bildge. Great sail.

2009-04-14T08:53:00.003+02:00

FBYC EASTER REGATTA

SAT:
This was a pursuit race witht he first boats getting off at 12h30 and us the last boat at 13h40. The course was a start, Castor, Bakoven rock, a bouy off Seal Island and finish. Winds were perfectly steady allowing nice powered up sailing. Using local knowledge we quickly started catching up en route to Bakoven rock. We hoisted the Kite and reached down to Seal Island catching more boats as they delayed hoisting as they probably felt the leg was too tight. At the leeward mark there were only three boats left to pass before Simons Town. We managed to take the lead just before Castor. As we neared the Bullnose we realized that there was no wind bekoynd that ands the little that would be found would come from another direction. We manaouvered as best as possible to get the best gain out of this. Red Bull behind us managed to maintain wind the whole way in but we managed to catch a puff just beofre them, quite near the line which allowed us to take first place. It was great sailing conditions in clean water...

SUN:
This was a Longer round the bouys race using the follwing as marks: Paddlers, Castor, Phoenix, a bouy in Fish Hoek. We had a good start putting us ahead on line almost immedaitely allowing us to focus on making up time. This we checked at each bouy and calculated. Using local knowledge we were able to pull huge gains and alwasy knew where to find the wind. This was a great race in perfect sailing conditions. We won on corrected time.

Overall we won the event. Aboard were: Ian and his brother Sean from New Zealand, Massimo, Michael, Siger and Dale. Boat performed well with no problems.

2009-04-06T08:19:00.003+02:00

DELIVERY- Cape Town to Simons Town

Boat departed RCYC at 07h00 on the 4th April bound for Simons Town. Motor Sailed for the first section on a reasonable seaway. Just off the Llandadno region picked up a NE wind with lots of gusts, gusting just shy of 2o knots. The winds were a bit shifty off the mountains but made good speed. Halfway across the bay to Slangkop just as a Spinnaker was being considered the winds started dying off with HP back to Motor Sailing by Slangkop. In the Slangkop region had to dodge some fishing bouys.... Spent some time motor sailing up the coast. Eventually a SW wind came through starting with 20 knots which had HP skipping along gladly. It soon tapered to about 13 knots which was great for sailing. Saw Mike Horn's expedition yacht further offshore(HP went far inshore to cut distance) Called Nick Leggat their Skipper up and chatted. Offered to take some pics of them rounding Cape Point if they were keen, A rendouvouz was set up, also chatted with Phillipa Huttingh Squire.

The winds tapered back off so it was back to Motor Sailing. Closing in at the point had to dodge some of the "famous"kelp. The fog started rolling in which cut visibility to about 50 metres at times. Met up with the "big boat" a mile from the point in the fog. They followed HP towards the point(Navigated). As we got closer we could see the point and that it was not that fogged in as the area we had come from, We then proceeded to take pics in the clearing conditions. After awhile HP had rounded and needed to proceed to Simons Town and Nick and his crew needed to make good for NewZealand, so wished them well on the radion and continued for Simons Town. Plnty of wind and Squalls in the bay with HP making good speeds, the highest wind speed was just over 30 knots. HP had the wind on the beam until Millers point whereafter it shifted to the nose making the rest of the sail a gusty beat. Still, conditions were not bad in the bay and it was not cold sailing. Made Simons Town in 8.5 hours which is not a bad time considreing the amount of motoring and the headwinds, not to mention spending the extra time at the point. Packed the boat before making Berth. Tied the boat up, cleaned the boat. Michael Valcic was there for the return lift, much appreciatted. Aboard were: Dale, Boat performed well.

2009-03-24T07:40:00.002+02:00

Pic, courtesy of Pam Newby

2009-03-23T14:52:00.002+02:00

More pics......

2009-03-23T14:18:00.002+02:00

MYKONOS RACE

Cape Town to Mykonos:

We started in a light breeze which picked upto about 20 knots a few hundred metres after the start. We reached the weather mark, hoisted kite and based on some local knowledge played the breeze line. Over the next few hours we changed our kite and did lots of gybes in order to keep in the breeze. Shortly after bok Point new breeze can through which had us reaching along with pole on forestay at 7.5-8 knots in flat conditions. We debated with our navigator the prime position to cross the transit at Dassen Island, navigator won the debate. The wind freed a bit as we got closer to the heads, we gybed for the heads and sailed inside Jutten catching the know breeze. Around the corner it was a two sailed fetech to the finish. All in all a great race with us finishing just after 5pm. Not bad for a 60NM race. In the end we won both legs on IRC handicap. We feel this was due to our local knowledge aboard and the constant working to "stay with it".

Bay Race:

Pursuit race having us sail all around the bay of Saldhana. We started in light breeze with us hauling some boats in a bit. The breeze got stronger at the weather mark. On the downwind we were forced tot he wrong side of the course by a starboarder which ultimately cost us the race as we sailed into a no wind zone. We were stuck there for quite some time allowing those that started after us to sail around this zone, effectively ending our chances for a good race, the rest of the race was sailed efficiently with us regaining a few positions... In the end, not a great result.

Overall we won ther Mykonos Offshore Race overall on IRC. Aboard were: Michael, Massimo, Sarel, Hans(from Dubai), Dale, Ian, Tony, Mark, Neville. The boat performed well.

The delivery return comenced straight after prizegiving with Ian, Michael and Mary Ann on the delivery crew. Ian reports a quite windless night with them motoring the whole way. The arrvied very early on Sunday morning.

All pictures courtesy of Neville Sharwood.

2009-03-16T11:30:00.001+02:00

Benba.co.za received both the Class 1 Jack Greenacre Trophy for the NSRI Summer series, & the Girovision Cup for Class 1, Audi 2008-9 Series Overall.

2009-03-12T16:42:00.002+02:00

WOW
HocusPocus has just won the latest Wednesday night series and in addition the overall trophy for the entire season. ie. Both Wednesday night series overall.

Well done to the crew. HP keeps together a core of crew who make this possible.

2009-03-12T16:30:00.002+02:00

WED NITE 11 March 2009
Nice flat water and a buidling breeze. As the normal Wedneday Series had ended for us and we won it etc.. we chose to sail in a different class. We had a brilliant crew but we had not sailed fully together before with Spinnaker, nevertheless we decided that it would be fun. We started agressively, we thought that the boats around us, uncluding ourselves were over the line so we immediately tried to sail back to the line but did not hear our name called so we sailed on. Unfortunately we now had to contend with the dirty breeze from the bigger boats. This took about 3 minutes to clear so all in all we were already about 2 minutes down. We gybed on the weather mark and did a good hoist but had to contend with a small rap which was quickly resolved with a bit of handy work on the piano. On the beat it took us some time to settle down. As we settled down we started to get the boat going well with us slowly making up while trimming all the time, upwind and downwind. In the end we managed to come 3rd overall for this race. Not to bad. Aboard were: Ian, Siger, Michael, Massimo, Sandy, Elena, Raffaele, Franceco, Sarel,Dale. The only damage sustained was a mainsheet block.

2009-03-05T14:55:00.003+02:00

Wed Nite RACE 5
A SE blowing between 17-24knots, nice flat sea. Another mundane course without true runs and only a short beat. We got a good start right on the line with speed, we managed to hold our own on the first leg. On the downwind we sailed a good line allowing us to put some distance on those behind us. On the fectch we were able to hang onto Periwinkle to within 4 boat lenths. This we held to the leeward mark. We were able to get a slightly higher bow angle on the beat and were edging our way forward. Periwinkle had a technical problem which they respolved quickly but this did allow us to sneak through. They sailed hard to try and pass us again but we still managed to cross the finish line 4 seconds ahead of them. We came first overall in this race. Giving us First overall in the series. Aboard were: Ian, Sarel, Siger, Michael, Massimo, Tony, Wanita(Guest), Dale, Neville. Boat performed well with no problems.

2009-03-04T08:05:00.002+02:00

WED NITE Race 4.
Light breeze in the starting area. Difficult for the bridge to determine where the wind will fill in to. We got a great start, fast with clear air. did well to the first mark and held our own on the run. There was a fetch to the next mark where we again held our own and the final run which was very short. Nice sailing, nice flat seas and warm evening. We came second. On board were: Dale, Ian, MAssimo, Elena, Siger, Michael, Sarel and with NEville Sharwood making his debut with us.

2009-02-19T15:59:00.002+02:00

WED NITE RACE #3
Nice evening, not to hot with the breeze from the NW 9-12knots. Good start but close to the wall on Starboard with boats tacking calling for water etc.. we got caught going back by a starboarder so we had to tack away. Immediately they tacked with us tacking back and the chase for the first mark. We had lost quite a bit with the extra two tacks. On the downwind we were concerned wioth the bigger boats behind so we went deep. Unfortunately we sufered here as the boats higher up got the new breeze first and increased their gap. We managed a good leeward mark rounding and worked the boat quite hard on the beat, getting us good speed and a nice wind line allowing us to pass the other two Farr 38's. In the end we got a 3rd overall which still leaves us number one on the leader board. Aboard were: IAn, Siger, Sarel, Dale, Massimo, Elena, Tony, American guest. Boat and crew performed well.

2009-02-13T10:14:00.002+02:00

WEDNESDAY NITE RACE #2, 11 Feb 09
In the yacht basin it was howling, but the race was on. We decided to take it conservavatively using a number 4 and one reef in the main. We got an excellent start, boat was going well. In the end we got a second overall which taked us to first place overall for the series with a good points gap. Boat performed well, no problems etc... Aboard were: Ian, Dale, Tony, Michael, Massimo, Italian girl, Riaan, Siger, Sarel, Judy.

2009-02-02T09:01:00.003+02:00

DOUBLE HANDED RACE 31st Jan 09
Aboard were Ian and Dale. To make matter more interewting Dale was Dutry Officer for the day tasked with seting the course. 40 minutesd before the start there was hardly any wind on the bay the little there was was a NE. There was wind that could be see in the SE corner, so HP went there to check it out. It looked like it was coming through but not very sure how far accross the bay it would spread. The course was set using paarden Island and Milnerton as the marks. We were concerned that if we went for Blouberg mark it might not be in position as has happened in the past and we did not have time to check if it was there. In reality it would have ben nicer for a short race and probably the only mistake made for the course setter..
With the wind filling in HP chose a position on the line that already had the new breeze, most of the boats were less fortuante and lost a lot of time getting going(1min) HP started with speed and close to the line, this advantage helped her to be first to the weather mark. On the downwind they were overhauled by most of the bigger boats. HP Sailed a consistant race with the winds ranging mainly between 17-20knots. The boat performed well. Just the other side of the finish line there was a wind line with no wind on the other side, so the course setter was correct in not taking everyone deep into the bay. HP came first overall. It was a great day on the water, good sailing, good fun.

2009-01-22T13:07:00.002+02:00

WED NITE RACE 1of series.

We got a legendary start with lots of speed in a good slot. With a light SW blowing with the occasional puffs the frist leg was a fetch to Landfall, we caught a short ride with the bigger boats and played the puffs well with us making good time to the first mark, the wind died on the downwind with us working and eeking what we could out of the boat on this leg we maintained our position and pulled time on some. The next leg was a beat. Towards the weather mark the weather died on us and headed allowing Majimoto to lift up higher and with their sail combo they had more power and therefore able to sail faster then us. We tacked for the mark and ducked behind Majimoto who had passed us at this stage. We sailed the rest of the leg in a dying shifting breeze. We came second overall. The sailing was excellent as the water was flat. Aboard were Ian, Dale, Siger, Stanley, Tony. Pic was taken by Kirsten Veestra.

2008-12-18T12:18:00.003+02:00

CROCS REGATTA
After much contemplation it was decided to enter Crocs Regatta..

Race 1- Double Points- Pursuit race to Bok Point and back.
We got an excellent start, sailed with a dying South Easter with it slowly shifting. A boat behind us siled for the westerlies and got some advantage. Meanwhile the Farr's that started got lots of breeze down the beach so we tried to reach up to try and get it. We could not get into this breeze, so we gybed and sailed the new Westerlies. By the time we got to Big Bay we have to peel in order to clear the rocks for wind angle. We then sailed for way point, peeling back again. Once round Bok Point, the wind staerted increasing with it turing into a tight fetch back to the finish. We managed to come first over the line by about 6-10 boat lenths. We won this race overall on IRC giving us double points..

Race 2- Bay race. Good start, with us doing well on the first half of the beat. nearing the weather weahter mark the wind had all but gone away. As we are a heavier boat we suffered in this condition and even when the wind slowly returned we were unable to make any sort of come back. This race gave us a poor result.

Race 3- Good start, good first beat, yet again the wind died with us struggling to keep going in the fickle conditions. Again a poor result.

Race 4- Average start, wind was at about 25 knots upto about 28. Boat was happy and going well. We made no mistakes on this race, flew the kite on all the downwind legs. While most boats were spinning out and struggling to control, we were happy. We came third.

Overall we came 5th(same points as 4th) if we had finished 2 seconds earler in the last race we would then have come 3rd overall but that is how racing is.

Aboards in total for the event were: Siger, Stefan, Massimo, Walter, Matej, Riaan, Ian, Dennis, Dale, Wayne, Tony

2008-12-04T08:36:00.003+02:00

WED NITE RACE:7
Strong breeze(Gusted upto 35knots) we opted to sail with full main and the number three, even though we were light on the rail. We started high up on the line haivng to fetch down to the first mark, this was a mindless leg. The down wind legs were sailed well, with boats spinning out at the gybe mark forcing us to go wide to avoid the "out of controlled". We sailed an excellent beat allowing us to play some catch up.. During the race the main leech lost some stiching so it has gone to the loft ofr repair. On the way up the harbour we assisted a 40 footer by towing them in as they had engine problems. Must say, in gusts of upto 35knts we were still able to tow them at 5 knots... We struggled to enter our own mooring due to the tight turnign area and a gust which caught us at the wrong moment., but no damage. We came 5th, missing second by about 10 seconds. First on IRC. Aboard were: Ian, Dale, Walter, Matej, Assaf, Siger, Massimo, Raphael.

2008-12-02T20:06:00.004+02:00

SOME PICS......................

2008-12-02T20:05:00.004+02:00

WED Night Race NO:
This was a mundane race, with a fetching course.

2008-12-02T20:05:00.003+02:00

HOUT BAY WEEKEND
Hout Bay Trip November 29 - 30
With the Dassen Island cruise cancelled due to no liferaft being on board, it was decided to re-route our weekend cruise to Hout Bay instead, as this does not require the safety of the liferaft to be on board.
We dropped lines at Royal Cape at around 14H00, and headed out into some glorious weather in Table Bay. The wind was 12-15knts WNW, and promised to be a good ride to Hout Bay. Sadly this was not to be, as the wind headed SW,with the approach of a frontal system, that brought with it a fair dose of rain and very poor visibility. We did however encounter quite a few whales off Sandy Bay and Karbonkelberg. The weather lightened up as we approached The Sentinel. We were safely docked in Hout Bay Yacht Club at around 18H30. After squaring the boat away, it was a dash for the clubhouse for a hot coffee (and a shower for Sandy).
After which we went in search of food. First we tried Dirty Dicks, only to find that the building was no longer there! We settled for a dinner at Mariners Wharf.

Sunday morning, breakfast was served aboard, thanks to Sandy. Dale, Bernice and Daniel made an appearance at the marina before we left home. The sails were hosted inside the harbor and we sailed out, as Dale took a pic or two, on our way passed. There was a good 12 knt SE wind blowing, which gave us a steady 8.5 knots out of the bay. The views of seal island and the sentinel being enjoyed by all. Matej tried his hand at the helm, as we rounded the Karbonkelberg and the crane wreck. Once again we were met by the whale brigade, a good twenty plus of them, spread out across the horizon. This time we managed to keep well clear, as we made our passage passed Llanduno and the Twelve Apostles, still maintaining a good 8 knot average. We were tested by a few gusts spinning off the mountain.
As we closed in on Camps Bay, the wind become more and more fickle. I started the motor from about Clifton, as the wind sucked away, for a short motor home. Our return trip, running in at around 2.5 hours. Not Bad ! All in all, a very enjoyable week end.
The crew aboard for this trip, Ian, Walter, Sandy and Matej.

2008-12-02T20:04:00.005+02:00

Pics taken by Sandy aboard HocusPocus

VOLVO START
SAT 15th NOV Volvo Ocean Race 2008- 2009 – Leg 2 – Cape Town
All excitement was up as hundreds of supporters made their way through the Table Bay waters to show support for the start of the second leg of the around the world Volvo Ocean Yacht race.
The stream lined beauties glided gracefully through the water at surprising pace given the light breeze, keeping all at awe. With eyes fixed on the majestic yachts, helicopters circled above, broadcasting this phenomenon live around the globe.
The busy shipping lanes and chaotic waters filled with spectators caused postponed start from a scheduled 13.00h till closer to 14.00h.The fluctuating SW blowing approximately at 5 Knots showed signs of some hidden breeze, encouraging teams to do their utmost to ensure a good start.
As the crews bustled for the best position in the final minutes leading to the start, the Puma team managed to pull slightly ahead of the fleet. In what seemed like mere seconds the yachts were out of sight to round the first mark in Blouburg.
Some cunning strategizing was seen as the teams battled to maintain their speed back through Table Bay towards Granger Bay. The wind dropped dramatically to a mere 3 Knots, then lifted again after the yachts passed Granger Bay, as we watched the Volvo yachts leaving the Cape of Good Hope for India, this positive omen set an exciting tone to see who would make it in the fastest time between ports.
Looking at this intrepid journey filled with tactical intrigue, all respect must be given to all the teams. At the mercy of the wind and sea the Volvo Ocean race is undeniably the most demanding and challenging team sporting event in the world.

2008-11-10T08:52:00.002+02:00

SAT SOCIAL SAIL-8 Nov
Our usual Satursday sail. Unfortunately the Bay race starts quite early on a Saturday so we were unable to sail. It was blowing in the 30's(Knots) when we left. We decided to take it easy so we put two tucks in the main and the Number 4 was used. The race was finishing as we departed. We did a good sail in the bay and then later decided to sail off to Sea Point where it was calmer. On the way back we decided to sail right upto the club. The top wind speeds were 35knts. The boat performed well. Aboard were: Ian, Walter, Matej, Marko, Siger and Dale.

2008-11-03T13:57:00.001+02:00

SAT FUN SAIL-1 Nov 2008
It was dediced in the morning to have a fun sail on the bay. Winds were ranging between 12-18knots, nice flat waters with a SW blowing. Made sure we had plenty of ice aboard. We sailed to Big bay, good leisurely sailing, no probems experieced. Boat was going nicely. Abaord were: Ian, Walter and Dale

2008-11-01T11:21:00.002+02:00

PIC....

Pic of HocusPocus aka. BENBA.co.za racing one of the Wednesday night races in about 25knots of winds. This Pic was taken by Kevin Reeves.

2008-10-30T08:43:00.002+02:00

WED NITE RACE 3
We were fortunate to have guest this Wed being Massimo from Southern Wind and an Italian, Franco or something similar who is a professional trimmer(who jumped off trhe boat as soon as we docked as he had to ge tto the airport to fly off to a Farr 40 regatta overseas). We experienced light winds which does not bode Well for HP, this with a terrible start pretty much ended any potential of a good result but we did try and claw our way back up the fleet only to be luffed on a reach leg and held in that position for about two minutes by a 50 footer... I think they were scared that a 38 footer could pass them on a reach leg???? Anyway through this manouver lots of boats were able to slip by, thus ending any chance of at least consolidating in the results.
Aboard were: Ian, Dale, Michael, Matej, Walter, Siger, Sandy, Assaf, Tony, MAssimo and Franco(whatever).

2008-10-23T10:48:00.003+02:00

WED nite Race:2
Wind was gusting between 18 and about 28.. Feeling in a laxy mood we took a conservative approach and put a reff in the main which we did not really need and a number 3 genoa. We got a good start and a mediocre first leg, on the downwind we suffered as we kept the reef in, good gybe at the wing, the next leg was OK, with the crew getting wet with spray, the last beat gave us the opportunity to make up but we still struggled for power at times.. In the end we came 3rd overall, this means that we are probably currently also 3rd in the series... Aboard were: Ian, Dale, Assaf, Walter, Michael, Matej, Marco and Sandy. Boat performed well, no problems...

2008-10-20T12:21:00.002+02:00

SAT SAILING-18 Oct.
We decided to convene some sailing for the general crew to train them further ont he on goings abaord on a Wednesday night race. The conditions for sailing were brilliant giving us about 2.5hours on the water. We focussed on tacks and setting and removal of the spinnaker pole, to pole out the jib. It was a worthy day with everyone getting their hand in. Aboard were: Michael, Matey, Siger, Walter, Assaf, Sandy and Dale. No problems experienced. New Main halyard working great.

2008-10-17T15:12:00.002+02:00

WED Nite Race 1(Of Series)
With Summer making its early appearance, the Wednesday night rqcing series has begun. First race started with about 20 knots at the start line. We got a good start and did reasonably well, unfortunately a large cruiser got between us and the bouy with no way of us passing them. We rounded the weather mark and tried to sail low but this did not pay in the end. Good gybe at the wing mark, on the next leg we were enroute to a shipping chanel mark, we saw ship approaching, some boats decided to cut it's bow. We decided that this was poor seamanship and already the ship had deviated away from the channel, pressumably in response to those going over it's bow. We decided to duck behing the ship which cost us in additional distance, making a catch up of the boats ahead of us not possible and shortening our distance of those behind us... We bore away almost onto a run and hardened up behind the ship and went straight for the mark. At the mark we were barged by a larger boat(They did apologise for it later) it was then a beat to the finish with us ducking one or two commercial boats which effected our strategy. In the end we still got a 4th on corrected time. Aboard were: Ian, dale, Rory, Siger, Walter, Sandy, Michael, Matej, Assaf. Boat performed well, we stripped the outer core on the main halyard which will be replaced before the boat is sailed again.

2008-10-10T14:49:00.001+02:00

WED NITE FUN RACE
Wednesday night racing has started for the 2008-2009 season.

08/10/2008
Crew aboard: Ian, Micheal, Siger, Sandy, Gavin, Toni and Nick.

Our first race was a lovely sail. The wind was SE 10 - 14 knts at the start, but soon dropped to around 2 - 5 knts and became incredibly shifty, with shifts of upto 40 - 50 degrees on the first beat to Paarden Island mark. At the mark the wind freshened slightly from the South East. We rounded hot on the heals of the Stretched Farr Perriwinkel, The Oyster 39 Touch & Go and the Fast 42 Maestro. The reach saw us hanging in with the bigger boats quite nicely. Which saw us all at the Milneton mark at the same time. Perriwinkel, Touch & Go on the inside of us and Maestro on our outside quarter. On the fetch to No. 2, Perriwinkel lead the pack, followed by Hocus Pocus as we had overhauled Touch & Go, with Maestro still behind us. The wind was sitting at 15 knts. We held our position until a little over halfway up the fetch, when Maestro eventually passed us to weather, and kindly offered us a tow, which we gladly took advantage of, for as long as we could.
Approaching No.2 mark, Perriwinkel was squeezed out by Maestro at the mark. Which saw her luff up and miss the mark and head back at us. She then tried tacking back, which then stalled them square across our bow just before the mark. We took avoiding action by ducking their transom and set about rounding the mark. Sandy at this point got over eager pulling in the main entering the rounding and almost saw us parked on the mark, as the boat tried to power up the beat early. Luckily I managed to free the mainsheet,and we eased over the edge of the mark without touching it. This left us dead in the water for a few seconds and allowed Touch & Go to capitalise on the situation, as she rounded in side us and passed us. Perriwinkel was still behind us as we started the beat to the finish. The final beat saw us hanging in there with Touch & Go . There were a few shifts in the breeze on the final beat, which saw the boats split coarses. We ended up finishing just behind Periwinkel and Touch & Go.
Overall, a most pleasant sail, enjoyed by all aboard.
We ended up 3rd in Class 1 on handicap. Not bad considering we had not officially entered the race!

2008-10-10T14:43:00.005+02:00

DOUBLE HANDED RACE-Sat 4th october 2008
The new season is upon us, first event being the Double handed for HP. This one being crewed by Dale and Dennis. The start took place in a 20knot Southerly with flat seas, by the time we reached the outfall the conditions were light and flukey which remained that way until Clifton, the conditions were a bit of a lottery, after Cliftin the Southerly came through leaving us to beat the rest of the way with an uncomfotable chop and winds upto 25knots. We finished 3rd overall. Looking at the weather forcast and the size of the fleet we realized that the chances for a return racve on the Sunday was slim, so we decided to round the pin mark of the finish line and sail back to CT. This was by far a really enjoyable sail, with the sailing being very fast. We sailed 95% of this leg with the self steering engaged as we wanted to test the heavy reaching ability in a seaway. We were suitably impressed.(Both Dennis and Dale downstairs packing the code 0)

2008-09-29T08:19:00.002+02:00

SOCIAL SAIL-26 Sept
The boat had not been out for a few weeks as it was decided to do some work on the motor which was not completed on time. Anyway, the motor now has new injector tips, recalibrated fuel fuel distributor, overhauled starter motor and a full comprehensive service.. All good to go.
Social sail too place with a SW blowing giving a fast sail to Murray bay, on the way back a SE was picked up with a beat back in about 20knots... All went well aboard. Aboard were: Ian, Michael, MAtej, Walter, Assaf.

2008-07-14T08:09:00.005+02:00

WINTER SERIES- Race 1
Nice southerly, between 15-20 knots but on flat water. The water colour was that beutifull green. Unfortunately we could muster only 4 for aboard for this race, one of which was a beginner on a keelboat. There were 16 starters on the start line.We got away to a good start and a good first leg. We decided to take it conservatiley downwind as we were shorthanded so we used the 1.5oz downwind. We handeled the downwind legs very well and made good(if not tight) layline calls upwind. We struggled for speed upwind due to us being light on the rail but probably made that up with good calls and fast downwind legs. In the end we came first overall..... Aboard were Ian, Walter, Rory(Beginner) and Dale

2008-06-30T08:24:00.002+02:00

ROBBEN ISLAND RACE 28/06
This was a pursuit race. 51 entries which just goes to show that everyone loves meduim distance pusuit. We started with Freedon in a light southerly, we timed it well and got off to a good start. The wind was starting to fill in over the bay with lots of holes everywhere. We had to reach up slighttly to the coastline to pick up the wind. We slowly worked our way to the Island without much gain. We could sense a wind shift and gybed, with the wind filling in shortly afterwards with us power reaching for the corner of the island. We arrive there at about the same time as everyone else. We peeled to the Code 0 which in hindsight could have been done later. We sailed around the island with us shifting to the headsail. The larger boats which came with the new breeze were quick to overhaul the fleet here. We tacked in close to the island to pick up the local shifts. As we worked our way into the bay, we decided to shift gears with our genoa, this cost us a bit of time. The rest of the beat was saile dfully powered, which the boat enjoys. We probably read one or two shifts incorrectly but it would have been unlikely we would have caught back any positions at that stage. We can tenth overall which, while not our normal good position did not reflect an enjoyable race which was had by all abaord. Aboard were: Ian, Michael V, MAtej, Siger, Greg H, Mark D, Tony, Dale. No problems experienced.

2008-06-24T16:36:00.002+02:00

SOCIAL SAIL-22 June 2008
Usual Sunday afternoon sail. Wind was quite light, upto about ten knots. Sea fairly flat with a NW. Nice sail, sailed past Milnerton. We were fogged in for the return leg which was not a problem. Nice navigation excercise(OK, we used technology instead). Boat worked well. Decided to have the engine serviced etc.. as it has been a while. This will be done in the next week or two.
Aboard were Michael, Matej and Dale.

2008-06-02T08:38:00.002+02:00

SOCIAL SAILING-1 June 2008
Light Southerly was blowing. It was just a leisurely Sunday afternoon sail. Aboard were: Ian, Michael V, Matej, Siger and Dale. The water was flat, it was a perfect afternnon for a sail. Boat worked well.

2008-05-27T08:26:00.003+02:00

DOUBLE HANDED RACE -24 May 2008
Very light breeze at the start. Unfortunately we were monitoring the wrong channel which we only realized in the final five minutes which meant that we were not set up for an ideal start with us starting on the wrong end of the line a bit off the line and having to dip some slower starboarders. We were underpowered on the beat. We managed a good hoist at the weather mark(o.5oz) and sailed down playing the shifts by gybing which helped us. We did a legendery drop on the leeward mark, a full crew could not have done it better. Again we struggled for power on the beat but tactically we had pulled away from Touch and go, later on there was a wind shift putting them on the right hand side of it so we were quite a bit behind. We managed to catch up on the downwind by playing the shifts and puffs with us finishing just 1 boat lenth behind then. The small boats were not too far behind in these conditions and tehy were being sailed extremely well. We came 3rd on line and 4th on corrected time. Dale and Ian were aboard. The boat worked well with no problems.

2008-05-26T13:35:00.002+02:00

EXTERIOR PICS

For those who are wanting to get a glimpse on some of the exteriro shots of HocusPocus. These pics were taken with a cell phone on a miserable wet wintery cape day so please excuse the quality.

2008-05-26T10:09:00.004+02:00

INTERIOR PICS,

Lots of sailors have asked what the interior of HocusPocus is like. These pics were taken in cold miserable rainy weather with a cell phone, so please excuse the quality.

2008-05-18T18:47:00.002+02:00

SOCIAL SAIL 17 May 2008
As we had not sailed the boat for a while we decided to take the boat out for a social sail. The winds were very light. We went to try and watch some of the sailing as there was a regatta in progress but the winds were too light. The boat was working well. Aboard were: Ian, Siger, Rael(Guest) Dale.

2008-04-07T15:58:00.000+02:00

KPMG RACE Saturday 05 April 2008

Crew: Ian Coward, Greg Harrowsmith, Walter Paige, Micheal, Matej and four Varsity student guests.

The race started at 14h35, the coarse was Start - No.2(S) - Milnerton(S) - 2(P) - Finish at the No. 10/Wall

We had a bad start having been squeezed out at the pin end, after being held up by a very slow moving Muira at the gun. We recovered well will a hasty tack and gybe at the pin, which saw us start about 6-8 boatlenghts later. We were still held in dirty air after the start which saw us tack off on to port and head to the right of the coarse to clear air. This was to be our nemisis, as the wind became light and switchy. While the majority of the fleet kept to the right of the coarse. This saw them sail clean over the top of us, as we wallowed in our private hole. It took a series of short tacks to get us back to the breeze, by which time, we were well and truly at the back of the fleet. It was to be a game of catch up the rest of the race.
We caught and past about five boats by the time we reached No.2 mark. This was followed by a Gybe onto starboard at the mark and saw Michel and Matej prove their very first attempt at poleing out the Code1 for the run down to Milnerton. The wind faded a bit more as we progressed down the coarse, passinfg more of the fleet as we went. We put in a gybe about two thirds down the run, as the wind turned more westerly. Only to be followed a short while later by a pole down as it swung back to NW.
We had a resonable rounding of the Milnerton mark, which saw us looking much better as we caught up to a Simonis 35 and the MountGay 30 Just Fun. Midway up the beat the wind started to freshen up, much to our likeing, as we overtook the Simonis and others. Approaching No.2, saw us on the tail of the L34 Spectrum. We rounded the mark and reached off for the finnish line. Realing in the L34 , the J27 Pure Magic and the MountGay30. We managed to cross the line ahead of Spectrum, hot on the heals of Pure Magic and Just Fun.

"Not one for the record books" as they say. But we did get our student working through their paces in the cockpit, as Greg mentored them throught the manouvers, one student at a time. I believe all on board enjoyed the sail non the less.
We retired to the Bar, for free drinks and food.

2008-03-31T07:49:00.002+02:00

DOUBLE HANDED RACE
This was a normal club double handed race. Ian and Dale sailed together. The breeze was very light with it continueally dying throughout the race. HP managed to come 3rd overall. HP was beated by the two sports boats who sailed the conditions extremely well.

2008-03-20T12:51:00.003+02:00

Walvis Bay pics...cont... (Courtesy of Greg Harrowsmith)

2008-03-19T14:27:00.001+02:00

Walvis Bay Pics cont.... pics courtesy of Greg Harrowmith

2008-03-19T14:24:00.001+02:00

Walvis Bay Race pics.... (Courtesy of Greg Harrowsmith) cont......

2008-03-19T14:16:00.003+02:00

Wavis Bay pics cont.......

2008-03-19T12:23:00.002+02:00

WALVIS BAY RACE -Namibia
The start was on Monday 10th MArch. We got a great start, first over the line on the pin end, we tacked onto port and prety much stayed there. We shaved past Dassen and onto Columbine. Conditions were flukey. In our first 24 hour run we did 138nm. The second run involved the wind feeing, kites up with a growing breeze in which we managed 211nm. Eventually the breeze became too strong and we dropeed the kite and eventually had us sailing with two reefs in the main and a number 3. Just before sunset we had a full blown gale running which forced us to drop the main and sail only with the headsail. The seas were very confused with the odd wave been taken over the stern or quarter. During the following morning it was stil blowing but managed to sail goos winged under two fore sails. Over the next day or so the wind moderated with us slowly sailing again under kite and then our lite kite. Soon the NW filed in with us fetching and beating in. During the night hours it was very flueky with us soetimes struggling to hold any speed. We were still in the running. Hi Fi was about 70nm ahead which in good conditions would be about 12 hours ahead. As things would hapen they finished around the time the wind dorr closed. With us being out at sea still for an extra long time. We started to get the wind again(SW) while getting closer to Pelican point with us cutting it fine and a nice fast sail accross Walvis bay to the finish. We came 4th on corrected time and basically comleted the course in 5 days and 2 hours. We used SSB for communicating and had no problems with this, we made quite a few phone calls with this system. CT Radio were great as well as Walvis Bay Radio. Catering was done by Greg Harrowsmith, all was good here and all were well fed. The boat experienced no major problems with just a bit of chafe on one of the sails. Aboard were Dale, Ian, Sarel, Walter and Greg.

2008-03-06T10:15:00.003+02:00

WEDNESDAY NIGHT RACE (5 Race)
We started in a light Southerly wind. Good start and good first leg. Struggled a bit in the next leg to Milnerton but held in going to Number 8. At number 8 we rounded just behind some of the spinnaker class boats which pinched up quite a bit. This cost us valuable time so weeventually decided to tack off and do a short dog leg and then back to the finish. We came second in our clas missing honours by one second. Not bad. It was a beautifull summers evening. Aboard were: Ian, Dale, Walter, Michael V, Matej, Assaf, Danielle(Guest), Robbie(Guest), Tony Strutt(Still a guest)

2008-03-04T09:00:00.002+02:00

DOUBLE HANDED RACE
Course was Daeyang Family and finish at Milnerton. Ian and Dale aboard. It was a beat to Daeyang in a dying breeze which did not suit us. We struggled to keep the boat going with the boats with the larger foresails making huge gains. Once around the mark it was a reach to the finish, as we got closer to the mark th ewnids steadied giving us a nice sail but no chance of redeeming ourselves in the results. Our final position was 4th on corrected time.

2008-02-28T14:46:00.002+02:00

WEDNESDAY NIGHT RACE (4th Race sailed)
We had a meduim SE wind. Nice start, unfortunately the fleet tend to sail above the mark which costs all valuable distance nevertheless we still rounded where we should have. The next leg being a reach we needed to protect our breeze with a boat threatening to sail aove us which would have cost us. The last leg of the race was a beat with freshening breeze which was sailed well starting with a good leeward rounding. We came second overall. There is one more race in the series. Aboard were: Ian, Dale, Walter, Michael V, Sarel and Dudley from California...

2008-02-18T07:49:00.002+02:00

MYKONOS RACE:

RACE 1: Cape Town to Mykonos
8:30am start. Almost no wind. We got a good start on the weather side of the line. The wind freed off so we hoisted our code Zro. Our game plan was to pass Robben Island on the Western Side as Westerlies were predicted and light ones to start so we felt we needed to get the wind first. Going on the outside of the island is risky and something we would normally not risk.
The winds were light with us doing many sail changes and a few gybes. About halfway to Dassen Island the wind statrted to settle with us sailing with the .5oz kite doing about 7 knots, flat water and really pleasant sailing making it all worth it. It was at this point that we could get visual of the boats that went on the inside of the island, we realized straight away that they had better winds and that we had lost out. But that is how yacht racing works. We managed to make the heads at sunset with a nice sail accross the bay. We came 3rd in our class.

RACE 2: Bay Race
This is a pursuit start. We were bang on time for the start. We sailed a good beat working the current and lift in our favour. Closing in at the mark with the wind strenthening we wanted to cancel our 05oz kite. With the mark approaching we deiced we did not have time to change it so we will chance it(Risk blowing it) We had a good hoist and a very fast sail down tot the next mark. We sat on our main opponents quarter for the full leg. We rounded just behind then. At the next mark there were a few L34's between us which would have given us dirty airs if we had sailed for the shore so we tacked on the mark. The next leg was quite good with us keeping the boat going nicely. We managed to pass Freedon on this leg. We sailed around the and sailed a conservative leg. On the next mark we had to tack away quickly to avoid dirties again. On this beat Freedon overtook us, but we cunningly took our lead back and opened it up a bit. Round the Island and Kite up. At the nexxt mark we gybed but did not bother with the kite as it was a short leg and the wind was already over 30 knots. HArdening up on the leeward mark for a long beat we realized we were overpowered. Freedom had already put a reef in for thisd leg. Newvertheless we sailed on and managed to pass SWJ on this leg, leaving only two boats ahead of us. We hoisted the kite on the downwind giving us a great sail tot he finish. We came 1st in our class and 3rd in the bay race.

Overall: This was a great race. We came 1st overall in our class for the whole event.
Aboard were: Ian, Dale, Sarel, Michael V, Matej,Walter, Mark.

2008-02-14T11:13:00.003+02:00

WEDNESDAY NIGHT RACE (3rd race sailed)
Since our previous sail we had the pulpit straightened. At some job this will be improved upon or the pulpit replaced in order to make perfect but it is workable again. We also had the impeller for the log replaced. This was damaged in Salvador and finally gave up the ghost at the same time we replaced our Headboard Car with one which was brought in from Denmark. I call it an investment if you take the weak rand at the moment. THE RACE:
We got a good start but we struggled occationally for power as the winds were very light which our sail combination is not suited towards. A few larger boats powered over us. On the downwind we hung in with the bigger boats and maged to stave off those beind us. On the leg to Number 8 the boats behind seem to have got the wind first and they had a larger sail component so they caught up, especially in the lighter patches. Getting close to the leeward mark AL(Another Farr 38 with a different sail configuration) was on our tail so we hotted up in order to get to their weather in ordeer to at least protect our rights for the mark. We rounded well and sailed a "tricky" beat finishing just behind Majimoto and ahead of AL. We came 1st overall. Aboard were: Ian, Dale, Walter, Siger, Michael V and Tony Strutt(newbie) Boat performed well. Log was calibrated during the race.

2008-02-01T11:24:00.000+02:00

Wednesday night Race(2nd in series)
Nice South Eater Blowing. It was a tighht start with lots of barging resulting in us being pushed and a altercation with an innocent boat. When the gun went we decided that we were over the line and went back and restarted which cost us some time. We sailed a good first leg, mainly in dirty winds. On the downwind we cleared our air and ventually caught the stern wave of one of the 50 footers coming through which gave us a tow. We gybed on the inside of everyone at the mark and managed to catch a tow on Majimoto for the whole of the next leg which really pulled us up in the fleet. We hardened up for the beat with the wind now blowing quite strongly. We judged the layline and tacked. On this part we were able to overtake Majimoto. We needed to do a hitch to lay the mark. At the mark we struggled to bear away and gybe but once we had done that it was a good sail to the leeward mark hardening up to beat for the finish with one tack. We came second overall being beaten by the catamaran. We felt that we had sailed a good race. If we were not over the line(we thought we were, by miles, not sure if the bridge saw though as there were others ahead of us) and did not go back we might have one. We sailed good legs and good lay lines and roundings which helped make up the time. Aboard were: Dale, Ian, Walter, Sarel, Siger, Mivhael V, Matej, Mark D. Boat performed well, pulpit needs to be straightened.

2008-01-28T07:31:00.000+02:00

DOUBLE HANDED RACE
Saturday 26th Jan: Dale And Dennis sailed this event two up. One could see the wind line at the start but at the start line there was very little wind nevertheless in comparison to the rest of the fleet benba hit the line with speed at the right part of the line. All the boats struggled to keep going in the light breeze with Benba being the first in the new breeze. The breeze rapidly picked up and although we set up for a spinnaker hoist at the weather park, by the time we were there it was too windy. Instead we poled out for the downwind but ended up in sailing too low. Once rounded on the leeward mark(Milnerton) we beat back to Paarden Eisland. The wind had by that time increased to over 30 knots. On the second beat we decided to put a reef in. Just before the weather mark we stripped the outer core of the genoa halyard and we had to make a quick plan to stay in the race. The final leg was a reach to the finish. We can 1st overall. Boat performed well. Damaged one halyard and stiching on the No:3.

2008-01-17T09:44:00.000+02:00

WED Night Race
First race of the new year and first time that HP is sailing in our newly relegated class, now sailing in Class One.
We got away to a good start, as it is a fetch we struggled to keep clear wind as the larger boats slowly sailed over us. We sailed a good downwind overtaking two of the other Farr's and held our position on the next leg making ground on the bigger boats as they sailed "great circles", we sailed a good beat and called a good lay line. At the weather mark a boat in a different class stalled at the weather mark and then struggled to bear away causing us to loose some valuable time. We rounded the leeward mark just ahead of the Farr 40 which we overtook on the beat and held them off untill the finish. We came 1st on corrected time. On board were Ian, Dale, Sarel, Siger, Walter, Michael V, Matej.

2008-01-17T09:42:00.000+02:00

BENBA.co.za
Hocuspocus will be sailing under the name BENBA.co.za for the next few events. Benba has come aboard as sponsor. More info can be found on www.benba.co.za

2007-12-03T07:46:00.000+02:00

FLAG OFFICERS RACE
Late Friday I was contacted saying that the club needed another boat for the Flag officers race. The flag officers race is a team racing event with 6 teams of 5 boats each(Total 30) the best three results in each team get totalled. The team with the lowest score wins. Good stuff, better for class racing as it would involve some strategy. We were to sail on the Rear Commodore of Sailing's team, Greg Davis. We got some of thje regulars on the boat to join us as well as two newbies. At the last minute Greg Davis also joined us. Breeze was good. We got a good start and powered to the first mark and sailed the downwind poled out jib(as we were not sure if spinnakers were allowed) The boat excelled on the beat. After roundng the leeward mark again we carried on beating only to work out later that the course was to the finish so we had to bear away onto a fetch which cost a bit. We finished just ahead of the two Farr 40's which is a rarety indeed. We came third and our team came first.The boat performed well. Aboard were: Dale, Walter, Sarel, Newcomers: Stuart Lawson and Trevor Spilhaus and Greg Davis.

2007-11-28T13:42:00.000+02:00

DASSEN ISLAND CRUISE

This took place on the weekend of the 24/25th November. Departed CT at 09h00. The wind was blowing a strong SEaster so it was one reef in the main and a number 4 up to be on the conservative side. On the way down to Robben Island the reef was taken out. Gybe took place off Blouberg and a course was set for the Island. Spinnaker up and off we went. About 20 minutes later a gust or something hit and the spinnaker blew out. It totally shredded. So down with the remamnants(To be thrown away) and up with a number 3 poled out. Later the winds shifted to SW so it was a two sail reach. The wind became luighter for a stage and then sterentened closer to the island. Rounded the island doing a steady 9 knots. There was no problem anchoring with good holding. Unfortunately we did not have permits to go ashore but was picked up by one of the cat guys for sundowners.

Departed Dassen at 06h00 on Sunday. Main up, not much wind so had to reort to motoring the whole way back.

Boat performed well especially the self steering in all conditions. Aboard were : Dale

2007-10-29T09:08:00.000+02:00

DOUBLE CAPE RACE
The Double Cape has definately lived up to it's reputation this year. It is renowned for being a very tough race. It is too long to be cosnidred short and too short to be considered long with the result that one cannot get into a routine abaord and therefore tend to sail it like a round the buoy race with all hands on the weather rail etc.... and no sleep.
OUR RACE:
We got an excellent start on the line, naturally the bigger boats started to power away and we suffered a bit with our smaller headsail. We tried to look for more wind offshore but with little success. The breeze strted to fill in after Camps Bay with us strting our long hard beat to the point. Actually it was a great beat. There was enough breeze to keep the boat going fast and the sea was flat so what a pleasure. We reached Capew Point just after dark and immediately popped the kite for opur sail into False Bay. The breeze quickly freshened and we started surfing our way in. We did a bad drop on the kite with the result of us having the kite in tow in the water. We quickly recovered and decided to change the jib for a more suitable one for the hard beant out of False bay. The wind was strong on the beat with a steep chop which resulted in a lot of pounding. Very wet and hard on everyone but the boat performes well in thsi condition. We reached the point wherwe the conditions had improved slightly, down the other side the breeze started to increase, we gybed for Slangkop and started to catch all the surfs, the conditions started to become very strong with us maintaining excellent averages. We arrived in the Llandadno region and prepared ofr a strong hard sqaully final drag, we got one or two sections with wind but by Vamps Bay the wind had died away. We spent the rest of the race looking for breeze with it extending our finish time by 2 hours. We came 2nd overall on Club and IRC. Th crew did a sterling job in those conditions. Aboard were: Ian, Sarel, Walter, Greg and Dale.

2007-10-15T12:43:00.000+02:00

MOSSEL BAY TO CAPE TOWN
Crew aboard were Dale and Walter Page. HP departed Mossel Bay at 20h30 after a leisurely supper in the yacht club. Must say the club was busy and we could not even get a table in the restaurant so we ate Bar style. We motored for the first 12 or so hours and then decided to conserve Diesel. The winds were light which left us beating with a VMG of about 2.5 knots on a beat. Gradually the breeze freshened improving our angle for Agulas. As we got closer the breeze started to freshen and free of. We got there at about 20h30. Once we rounded the breeze started to pick up with us sailing along nicely getting the odd surf at about 12 knots boat speed, all this while taking it easy. There was a lot of shipping and sea life during the night wioth us having to keep a sharp vigil. We went quite far South with our final angle heanding alomst due north towards Cape Point at sunrise. The sea state had the usual waves etc... and the highest wind speed was about 25 knots.. but nothing overly huge as one normally gets. We were able to sail down to slangkop where the wind died and forcing us to go back to motor. We motored the balance of the trip. The boat performed brialliantly without any problems being experienced. We were able to give the new autopilot a good test which we now give it the thumbs up. The sail was an absolute pelasure with us docking at RCYC at about 2pm Saturday.

2007-09-10T11:17:00.000+02:00

MOSSEL BAY RACE
We started the race at 4pm on the 5th September from Cape Town. We started in light fickle conditions, we hit the line bang on initially sailing with our code Zero, the fleet searched for the puffs, the wind eventually swung seing us shift to the code 1 and beating our way to the point. Ath the point we were able to crack off and fetch across False Bay. The wnd started to strenthen and slowly free off which got us skipping of to Danger Point. Soon afterthis it went right aft with us putting up our 1.5oz kite. The seas grew. Our top speed was just under 17 knots. We made very good time and our ETA's kept being brought forward. At Agulhas we gybed and sailed down the coast line on a reach. We wind started to ease, it then sifted to onshore, with us changing to a Code Zero. The winds lightened. During the night it shifted to a land breeze which we sailed with our Code 1 and then again the Code Zero. At day break we had a few boats in striking distance. We were offshore with the majority of them closely inshore. The breeze was stronger inshore so we cut our losses and sailed till we were just below the cliffs. We rounded St Blaize with the Code Zero which we later peeled to the 0.5oz kite which we carried till we were over the finish line. Aboard were: Dale Kushner, Ian Coward, Walter Page, Greg Harrowsmith. The boat performed brilliantly, no damages etc... It was a great sail with great people. We came 3rd overall on IRC which is excellent for this event.

2007-08-07T08:18:00.000+02:00

WINTER SERIES "B" Race 1.
Winds were a nice reasonably steady SE with flat water which is always a pleasure to sail in. Got a good start. We sailed a good race. On the second downwind we were changing our foresail when we got a wind switch and wern't ready with the foresail. This cost us about 2.5 min. On the final leg the breeze started coming to increase from behind which benifitted some of those behind us. It was a good day on the water, the course was good. Aboard were: Ian, Walter Riaan and Girlfriend, Siger, Sarel and Dale.

2007-07-29T20:42:00.000+02:00

WINTER SERIES-Final Race.
Typical winter front over Cape Town, rain, cold tempratures, big lumpy seas and lots of wind. Racing was on. I think it was a good call as far too often racing gets cancelled because of the conditions so I must appluad the race officer. It was a short course but still worth a good sail. Because there was a small entry we decided to take it conservatively and put reef in the main and used the NO:3. Our start was fairly good with us hanging in there with the bigger boats on the beat. We rounded the weather mark settled down, put in a well exeuted gybe. We then decided not to bother with the kite and we basically felt we had our class result wrapped up as the rest of the boats were struggling. We got to surf once or twice on the downwind. We came 1st on corected time in our class. Aboard were: Ian, Siger, Walter, Sarel, Greg H, Sidney Bilski, Michael Muller and Dale

2007-07-24T09:24:00.000+02:00

RACE 3:
Race 3 took place on Saturday, 21st July. On board were: Siger, Walter, Riaan and Dale. The winds were light and fickle with lots of holes.Definately not the sort of weather for HP. At one point we were sailing with the tail enders. Fortunately towards the end of the race, with an understanding of the "local conditions" we bit the bullet in the faith that we would get better breeze(While initially sacrificing angle). We read it correcttly and managed to finish third over the line. We came 8th on handicap.
It is interesting to note that on this day there were no rumbles about our handicap. Hmmmm, makes you think..........

2007-07-20T08:22:00.000+02:00

CLUB RACING RACE:2
This race took place on SAturday the 14th July. Unfortunately we were "light" on crew making up a crew of only Siger, Walter and Dale. Nevertheless we entered and did our best using the spinnaker, gybing and doing what others were doing, albeit a little slower and avoiding unneccessary manouvers. We ended with a 6th in our class which is not to bad. We are now standing at 2nd overall in our class.

2007-07-09T09:27:00.000+02:00

CLUB RACING
Winter series:
FIrst racing of the winter series. A good course was laid. We sailed a good race making only one or two minor errors. We came 4th. Crew abaord were: Sarel, Siger, Riaan, Riaan's girlfiend who's name elludes me, Ian and Dale. The boat performed well. The engine repair seems to have been done very well.

2007-06-04T12:01:00.000+02:00

DOUBLE HANDED RACE
2 June 2007
The start took place at 12hoo. Aboard were Ian Coward and Dale Kushner. There was light winds etc... We rounded the sweather mark in second(which is good for the boat in light conditions) We hoisted the Code Zero and sailed on into a dying breeze. There was confusion on the part of the bridge in terms of shortening the course. Ian lodged a protest after the race. The race was therefore abandoned. There was a good turnout for this event which goes to show that Short Handed Sailing is on the up.

2007-05-17T09:19:00.000+02:00

WED NIGHT RACING:
16 May 2007
Nice sailing conditions, flat water, a bit of a chill in the air. The conditions would have been brilliant for bouy racing. In essense we sailed a bit of a soldiers course. Nothing terribly exciting. We can 3rd on corrected time which was probably not to bad for the course. Aboard were: Ian, Walter, Sarel, Siger and Dale. The boat perforned well, no problems.

2007-05-15T15:44:00.001+02:00

NEXT EVENTS:
It has been decided not to sail Table Bay Classic. The first race starts on a Friday 3pm and frankly to ask everyone to take that time off work en mass would not be fair. To enter the rest with the discard used would also be a waste of good energy.

The following events we are keen on HP doing:

The Winter Wed nite series, subject to fair weather etc...
The Portugal day race
Teh Robben island pursuit race
Club Bay racing.
Mossel Bay Race(Sept)
Double Cape Race.

It is not our intention to do much round the bouys racing. The boat was set up and intended for Offshore sailing. We want to stick to that plan as much as possible.

2007-05-15T15:44:00.000+02:00

The Winter Wed nite series, subject to fair weather etc...
The Portugal day race
Teh Robben island pursuit race
Club Bay racing.
Mossel Bay Race(Sept)
Double Cape Race.

It is not our intention to do much round the bouys racing. The boat was set up and intended for Offshore sailing. We want to stick to that plan as much as possible.

2007-05-10T17:10:00.000+02:00

WED NITE RACING:
9 May 2007
Winter racing is still happening with the start being at 5pm, all classes, one start and the cut off for racing is 6:30pm.
We got sorted out late, with us getting the jib up just beofre the start, hence we were not in the best position on the line, however we recivered quickly, largely though to the fact that most of the fleet did not get onto a full beat quick enough. We managed to round the first bouy first and never had to look back. On the downwind the 7.5 caught up as they were using their kite(only boat sailing kite class) but they never passed us. On the beat we pulled away from the rest of the fleet, when we tacked for the mark we had a cluster on the foredeck resulting in us sailing for about 2 minutes with the main only and us tacking back to solve the problem. We still managed a first over the line and a first on PHRF and IRC.

2007-04-30T16:22:00.000+02:00

MORE PICS:

Admiral Cup

2007-04-30T12:00:00.000+02:00

CENTRAL BOATING
Central Boating has come aboard as one of HocusPocus's main sponsors.

Central Boating is one of South Africa's main yacht chandelery businesses. They specialize it a total one stop shop envirioment. They can supply almost anything for your yacht or motor boat and if they don't have it they will get it for you. In addition they are also the Musto agents as well as other reputable brands such as Lewmar, tactic, Ronstan etc... I am sure that wevery yachtie in the country has bought a part directly otr indirectly from them.

Their web address is: www.centralboating.co.za

2007-04-30T11:46:00.000+02:00

ADMIRALS CUP

With Central Boating as our principal sponsor

This event was held over Friday(27th) to Sunday (29th) We delivered the boat the previous Saturday to Hout Bay. There was no wind so we motored the whole way. The trip was unaventful. We completed it in 2.5 hours.

Friday:. We left on time for the sailing grounds. The wind was fickle with the ocational gust and lots of switches with big lumpy seas. It was diceded to postpone racing for the day.

Saturday: The courses were brought inshore with a much shorter course which favoured the smaller boats. The winds gave for nice sailing with the occational lull which for HocusPocus's sail inventory is not good. The crew performed well.

Sunday: The racing was in higer winds, most boats reefing down with small jibs. We ran with a NO:3 and full main. We were one of the few boats who were able to manage our kite downwind without blowing it or broaching or dropping it in the sqaulls. We maintained full control on all the downwind legs. There were twon short racing and then they called it for the day as they felty the winds were to strong.

All in all it was a good regatta. We sailed well and came 4th overall. The crew were: Dale, Ian(Fri/Sun), Mark Devitt, Terone, Duncan MAtthews(Fri/Sun) Trish Donnahue(Sat), Sarel (Sat), Greg Harrowsmith, Riaan Brits, Dennis Cochrane, Walter Page.

2007-04-23T21:31:00.000+02:00

SOUTH STAR
The South Star Race has been announced with it being raced in the Single Handed and Double Handed classes. It races from Hout Bay to Saint Helena Island in the South Atlantic which is approx 1700NM. A release on HP's intention will follow shortly. More on www.thesouthstar.co.za

2007-04-12T10:23:00.000+02:00

MORE PICS:

Please see enclosed some pics of a previous HP adventure as well as a pic of our arch rival team.

2007-04-12T09:11:00.000+02:00

WED NITE AUTUMN SERIES:
The e mails went out. At the end only Ian and Dale could make it, so they sailed two up.(Something that they are specialized at). The mooring lines were thrown off 25 minutes to the start, with the boat being rigged while going through the harbour. They were a bit light as we had no one on the rail. A good start was had with HP being first at the 1st mark. On the way down to Milnerton the Melges passes with their kite up. HP maintained her position for the rest of the race winning overall on corrected time. The Autumn format is good. Alothough it means getting down early , we still got a good turnout. I think it is a wonderful initiative in sailing. HP performed well with everything working well.

2007-04-06T09:21:00.000+02:00

IRC Remeasuring:
On Wed 4th April we did some IRC remeasuring. This was an opportunity to have the boat reweighed as we have been shifting weight and have changed a few things, we also used this opportunity to "tweak" our sail inventory. The boat's bottom was still in god shape, anodes all good etc... In all likelyhood we will enter Admirals and the Table Bay Regatta in May under IRC etc... Harry Brehm was the measurer. He was very efficinet in the processes. We will shortly be getting our new rating certificate from Sandy in Durban.
The coupling on the propellor shaft has now been repaired albeit it a lot of $$$$ and it now seems fine. The boat is now ship shape again.

2007-03-27T11:09:00.000+02:00

WORK IN PROGRESS:
During the delivery the crew experience strange noises from the shaft. On return we handed this problem over to the experts. To date they have diagnosed that coupling was most probable of this noise. They are engineering it at time of this posting. Once fitted we will be able to be sure. While the boat has been out of commission we have taken the time to reduce some weight in strategic areas, namely below the cockpit floor there has been a well(as like all other Farr 38's) The well servied as storage foer the liferaft. No one uses if for that as sometimes it has water in it which long term is detremental for a liferaft. Most people just use it for fender storage etc.... It serves as no structural importance. In this well our boat has had a 200 litre stainless steel fuel tank. Really nice for the long hauls but striclty speaking in the wrong part of the boat. We have therefore fitted a modern small tank in the same position as all other Farr 38's and have removed the reather heavy tank. While we were at it, it was decided to remove the well as well. We then scratched around and removed or changed a couple of other little things as well as to fully service the steering system. Once the boat ias operational again we will have to have the boat rewieghed and checked by the IRC measurer and well while he is at it, we might as well optimise our rating with one or two more measurements.

2007-03-11T10:00:00.000+02:00

MYKONOS RACE

Race 1: Cape Town to Mykonos.

Wwe started in fickle southerlies. We got away to a good start and promptly powered away. Round the first buoy and the kite went up. We then worked down to Robben Island with the smaller boats holding on. The winds then swung to a SW. We peeled to Code Zero and carried to Dassen Island, After Dassen the winds went forward and died so we sailed at about 3 knots, we went outside Jutten to pck up some currents. As we got closer to Mykonos the winds picked up nicely and we were sailng in on a full beat nicely powered up. Unfortunately with the finish line a few hundred metres away and in sight midnight had come. Midnight being the cut off time. We calcualted that we would have finished within another 8 minutes. But that is how racing is. We missed the cutoff. Lots of sailors are outspoken about this however, it was in the rules and therefore it is fair as that is what we aggreed to sail to.

Race 2: Pursuit race in Saldhana Bay.

This race was held in lightish conditions, in our opinion we sailed a flawless race, getting every shift right. Crew work was supurb. The only mistake was a short a sheet on the "codey" which hampered the last gybe. We came second, just behind "No Promises".

Delivery back:

Ian Coward, Sarel van der Merwe, Siger Smink and Asaaf Yechiel delivered the boat back. They left at around 7:30pm. According to them they motored most of the way back as there was very little wind and lots of fog. Just after Robben Island they picked up strange noises from the "iron sails" so they sailed the rest of the way and only used the engine to get into moorings. They arrived at 4am. We have had the engine checked and it would seem to be the coupling on the shaft that was making that noise. It is currently in repair.

2007-02-20T10:04:00.000+02:00

LADIES RACE:

For this race Judy Proveyeur was the skipper, she brought her team of female sailors with. Ian Coward stayed aboard as the rules alow a owner or representative. He reports that the "girls" sailed very well and got nicely away from the fleet. They cam ... overall.

2007-02-20T10:01:00.000+02:00

WED Nite, RACE 3 and 4.
For these two races there was good winds with a fair course. Ian Coward was the helmsman as Dale could not be there. The results were a 1st and a second which means that Ian is a mighty fine helmsman. Overall after discards we are 1 or two point behind first place.

2007-02-01T22:27:00.000+02:00

Wednesday Night:
3rd Race:
The start was in a no wind zone with a few light puffs, fortunately we hit the line with speed in the right place, unfortunately after about 30 seconds the bridge decided we were over the line(questionable) nevertheless we went back, which is very difficult in a no wind zone. By the time we restarted we were way back. The rest of the sail was great except that there were no beats etc.. in the race, just two beam reaches. It was a great evenings sailing though with a nice turn our of boats. We came .... on corrected time.