Season’s Greetings
from
The Back Bay Skippers
Mark Whitehead
Commodore
Although everyone pitches in to make the season a success, there are several in our group who go above and beyond,
and I think they should be singled out for their contributions.
Tim Wright
Vice Commodore — US12 Fleet Captain — Sailing Class Instructor — Model Yacht Building Instructor
B. B. Wright and Karen Enos
Our Dedicated Scorekeepers and Photograph Contributors
Paul McBride
Web News Coordinator — Treasurer — Certificate Producer — Photographer
Don Cundy
Race Director
Kathleen Whitehead
News Editor — Proofreader — Function Coordinator – Special Event Statistician
Al Stevens
Model Yacht Building Class Instructor and Coordinator
Wes Matchett
Regatta Scoring Statistician
Steve Leker
Zoom Class Coordinator — Soling Stand Maker — Sailboat Kit Maker
Al Posnack
Assistant for the Zoom Classes
Anthony Quinn
Soling Sail Maker
Ken Gerber
Web News Assistant — Sailboat Kit Maker
Denis Boisvert
Soling Manual Draftsman
Bob Brennan
Keeper of the Skipper Memorial
Bruce Wilhelm
Model Yacht Building Instructor
Videos and Photos
Previous Highlights
Score Sheets
Upcoming Events:
Past Events:
e-mail: backbayskippers@gmail.com
Links: American Model Yachting Association, MinuteMan Model Yacht Club, Nashua Model Yacht Club, Marblehead Model Yacht Club, Greater Worcester Model Yacht Club, Sarasota Model Yacht Club, Space Coast Model Sailing Club, Sun Coast Model Sailing Club, Stowe Yacht Club, USS Constitution Model Shipwright Guild, Vac-U-Soling, 3D Printed Radio Yachts, US Vintage Model Yacht Group, Raritan Yacht Club RC Laser Fleet, Racing Rules of Sailing 2021-2024, Western Reserve Model Yacht Club, Joe San Antonio Fleet Donation
Written by Mark Whitehead, Tim Wright
Editing & Proofreading Kathleen Whitehead
Photos by B. B. Wright, Paul McBride
Layout by Ken Gerber
Photo Captions by Paul McBride
Games by Dave Perry
e-mail: backbayskippers@gmail.com
The Last Soling Regatta
On October 31, eleven Soling skippers gathered to say good-bye to the 2023 season. It was a glorious ending for the fleet, with sunshine, a steady breeze, and a nip in the air to remind them that winter’s on its way. The fifteen-race regatta was sailed one race after another by eight skippers, five of them having the thrill of a first-place finish. Concentrating on their boats, they paid little attention to Mother Nature’s good mood and remnants of foliage.
Solings on the Water
How do you score eight skippers of three different classes? Well, first you give bragging rights to Al Stevens, who sailed his patriotic #33 US12 to an overall score of 3.7, beating all other US12s, of which there were none.
The rest of the fleet were Solings, one skipper from the Master Class and six from the Sailor Class. Master Class skipper Mark Whitehead was giddy with six wins and a score of 2.1 to lead all Solings. In the Sailor Class but soon to be promoted to Master Class was Jeff Witzel with four wins and a score of 2.3 to take second overall or first in only the Sailor Class. Coming late to the regatta and participating in only eight races, Steve Towne managed two wins toward a score of 2.9 and third overall. Less than a point behind was Ted Monetta, who had two wins out of his fifteen races, leading to a score of 3.5 for fourth. Linwood Davis remained close with a trio of second-place finishes and a score of 4.1 for fifth. In the sixth spot with a score of 4.7 was Bob Strodel, his claim to fame was dying just inches from the finish while other boats sailed by. The ultimate frustration! Another latecomer was Anthony Quinn, who spent most of his time helping Al Stevens tune the US12, competing in only four races, his score of 6.8 landing him in seventh place.
Frostbite Regatta
With temperatures in the thirties and a substantial wind, our toughest skippers came for the 11 AM start of Thursday’s regatta on November 2. The sun was out for the thirteen-race regatta with six boats participating, including Denis Boisvert’s schooner that gave the Solings a lesson on how to tack to the finish. While starboard-tacking boats ended up below the finish line, Denis demonstrated perfect tacking ability to beat them all, causing other skippers to scratch their heads in disbelief. The schooner just loves a good strong breeze.
Steve Leker brought his camera for a little more filming to accompany this winter’s training sessions.
Frostbite Results Boat # Score Class # of Races 41 1.33 Soling 6 237 2.54 Soling 13 44 2.62 Schooner 13 61 2.92 Soling 12 22 3.75 Soling 12
The End
As scheduled, at 1:00 PM, everyone pitched in to put the dock away for the winter. Al Stevens and Joel Nelson brought their trailers to load and transport the dock and dinghy to their winter home. In all, there were thirteen skippers for a fast and efficient process. Joel Nelson and Mark “Leaky Boots” Whitehead took on water duties, lifting the dock to the rest of the crew. Of course, Joel didn’t want to be outdone by his commodore so went in deeper than his waders could handle! While the dock was being disassembled, Linwood Davis and Dick Currier gathered all the buoys and strong-armed the dinghy’s anchor into the boat.
The dock-out crew included John Russell, Mark Whitehead, Joel Nelson, Steve Towne, Paul McBride, Al Stevens, Denis Boisvert, Dick Currier, Linwood Davis, Ted Monetta, Steve Leker, Anthony Quinn, and B. B. Wright. A HUGE THANK-YOU TO ALL! With so many helping hands, the job was so much easier and faster!
Radio-Control Sailing
Our sailing season has ended but we are active year-round, so follow us on Model Yachting News at https://www.nhbm.org/model-yachting-category/news/ on the New Hampshire Boat Museum website. If you would like to join us, sign up for the 2024 Model Yacht building class at https://www.nhbm.org/model-yachting/model-yacht-building/
Videos and Photos
Previous Highlights
Score Sheets
Links: American Model Yachting Association, MinuteMan Model Yacht Club, Nashua Model Yacht Club, Marblehead Model Yacht Club, Greater Worcester Model Yacht Club, Sarasota Model Yacht Club, Space Coast Model Sailing Club, Sun Coast Model Sailing Club, Stowe Yacht Club, USS Constitution Model Shipwright Guild, Vac-U-Soling, 3D Printed Radio Yachts, US Vintage Model Yacht Group, Raritan Yacht Club RC Laser Fleet, Racing Rules of Sailing 2021-2024, Western Reserve Model Yacht Club, Joe San Antonio Fleet Donation
Written by Mark Whitehead, Tim Wright
Editing & Proofreading Kathleen Whitehead
Photos by B. B. Wright, Tim Wright, Paul McBride
Layout by Ken Gerber
Photo Captions by Paul McBride
Games by Dave Perry
e-mail: backbayskippers@gmail.com
In Memory of Lorraine Crocker
1932 – 2023
Sail Number 14
Model Yacht Building Class of 2013
Film Crew
In anticipation of the 2024 Zoom training classes, videographer Steve Leker brought his camera to get closeups of regatta starts and cross-traffic rights-of-way. Tim Wright and Steve worked together to come up with the best training shots.
It Must Be New England
We carefully check several weather reports the day before our regattas, make the call, and hope we are right. All too often, Mother Nature does what pleases her that day or minute, totally ignoring meteorologists. The October 24 Soling regatta was no exception. The forecast of partly sunny with winds of five to six mph, and reasonable temperatures was way off base. The reality was cold, cloudy, and a strange wind that hovered above the water at zero to four mph!
The good news is that Rule #1 (to have fun) was very much in evidence. The skippers who launched seventeen Solings and two US12s didn’t let any of the conditions bother them. When there was a lull, they had colorful fall foliage to admire and still managed to complete seven races.
Tuesday Scores US12s 1 Don McBride 1.4 2 Al Stevens 3.0 Sailor Class Solings 1 Ted Monetta 4.3 2 Jeff Witzel 7.0 2 Anthony Quinn 7.0 4 Jim Opie 7.8 5 Dave Corbett 9.0 6 Linwood Davis 9.4 7 Mark Bodenstab 10.0 8 Dick Currier 13.3 9 Skip Koehler 13.7 Master Class Solings 1 Tim Wright 1.6 2 Mark Whitehead 3.3 3 Don Cundy 3.8 4 Joel Nelson 5.5 5 Denis Boisvert 7.8
Solings on the Water
It was a bit weird to see boats moving from mark to mark over flat calm water. The first few races used only half the course, followed by a couple sailing the full course before switching back to half-course. As the wind disappeared completely, so did the sailors!
Don McBride brought his new Soling for sea trials, which he quickly abandoned for the borrowed #400 US12 and took the lead over Al Stevens’ #33, garnishing three wins and two second-place finishes.
The Sailor Class was led by Ted Monetta, who was able to master the light winds, scoring 4.3. Jeff Witzel and Anthony Quinn duked it out for second place with scores of 7.0. However, Anthony competed in only three races so the edge goes to Jeff. At 7.8, Jim Opie captured fourth. New skipper Dave Corbett with his on-the-job training scored 9.0, a good accomplishment. Congratulations, Dave, for rounding out the top five!
Our Master Class leader was the light-air wizard Tim Wright, who won the day with a 1.6, aided by his four wins. Commodore Mark Whitehead had a little more than his usual success in the light conditions, placing second with a 3.3 score. Don Cundy is always in the mix, placing third with his overall score of 3.8. Ending with a score of 5.5, Joel Nelson earned fourth place this week, and although Denis Boisvert struggled a bit, he landed in the top five at 7.8.
Always with a top score on OUR score sheet is Karen Enos, our faithful keeper with the watchful eye!
“Sail What You Bring”
The day was everything we could have hoped for (almost!). The temperature was unseasonably warm, the fall colors were still beautiful across the water, and the camaraderie was ever-present. While we had no wind before the racing started, the wind did make an appearance, giving us a variety of speeds from zero to eight. While directionally challenged, the wind still lasted long enough for ten races with a mixture of boats. There were three Solings, six US12s, and one Laser. With spirited and congenial racing, there was a sense that this was the last regular Thursday and we made the most of it. Next week, on Thursday, November 2, we sail at 11:00 AM for two hours, then the dock comes out and the season is over.
It has been a wonderful season of sailing. Throughout, we have been fortunate to have B. B. Wright score our races. Each Thursday, she keeps us moving so we can get our races started in a timely manner. All of the sailors thank her for the time and expertise she brings to the US12 sailing. She is one of the many dedicated volunteers who keep this program strong.
Every week, we expose spectators to the joys of sailing, and many take the opportunity to try it for themselves. There is great satisfaction in sharing our sport with others passing by. The smiles we induce, shown by the excitement of both the ones who dare to try and the ones who are content to watch, make each chance to share our boats special. Some spectators come on a regular basis just to watch. The Back Bay Skippers have a good thing going, and the weekly sailing will be missed. Even more, we will miss the camaraderie of the group. Our members are friends. As we spread out for the winter, we look forward to spring when we reconvene.
US12s on the Water
The boats were scored, not the competitors. Due to the relaxed nature of the day, there were no throw-outs for the scores. The Laser sailed in three races, winning two and managed a 2.67 average finish per race. B. B. Wright’s Soling, #285, made its first racing appearance in years. Her lavender boat, Journey, came in first in one race, and managed to finish with a 2.83 average. US12 #101 had two wins and a 3.00 average. US12 #10 finished first once and had a 3.22 average. US12 #35 was sailed by a Soling skipper and did well enough to finish first once. The average of 3.55 was a solid showing. Two boats finished with a 4.00 average. US12 #20 won two races in a row, and US12 #130 won the first race by a mile. US12 #223 had a 5.90 average. Two Solings came in next with 7.20 (#61) and 7.77 (#148) averages.
Thanks to all who have helped with the dinghy and the buoys, the signs, and all of the other little things people do to help out. It lessens the burden and makes for more enjoyable times sailing. After all, we are all there to have fun. That is Rule #1! It seems that 2023 hit the mark! In this case that’s a good thing!
Keep your eyes and ears open for our January annual meeting, which also is the start of the winter seminars. Along with Steve Leker’s technical expertise, Tim Wright leads monthly discussions on rules, tactics, and many other aspects of RC sailing and racing. Photos and videos are used to demonstrate points and help sailors to figure out how to make their boats faster and more competitive. Hopefully, we will see you next week, but if not, have a good winter and use the time to get your boat up to snuff.
Thursday Scores Sail Class Average 94 Laser 2.67 285 Soling 2.83 101 US12 3.00 10 US12 3.22 35 US12 3.55 20 US12 4.00 130 US12 4.00 223 US12 5.90 61 Soling 7.20 148 Soling 7.77
Videos and Photos
Previous Highlights
Score Sheets
Sailing on Back Bay
The radio-controlled model yachts are on Back Bay in Wolfeboro from 1 PM to 3 PM weekly, the Solings with their mixed companions on Tuesday and US12s plus “what you brung”on Thursday, weather permitting. Wednesday serves as an alternate day should sailing conditions be poor.
You don’t have much time to join the fun since we’re planning to pull the dock on November 2. We love to share so don’t be shy about asking to try your hand at the controls. Come watch the show or take a picture. It’s a sight to behold.
Upcoming Events:
Past Events:
e-mail: backbayskippers@gmail.com
Links: American Model Yachting Association, MinuteMan Model Yacht Club, Nashua Model Yacht Club, Marblehead Model Yacht Club, Greater Worcester Model Yacht Club, Sarasota Model Yacht Club, Space Coast Model Sailing Club, Sun Coast Model Sailing Club, Stowe Yacht Club, USS Constitution Model Shipwright Guild, Vac-U-Soling, 3D Printed Radio Yachts, US Vintage Model Yacht Group, Raritan Yacht Club RC Laser Fleet, Racing Rules of Sailing 2021-2024, Western Reserve Model Yacht Club, Joe San Antonio Fleet Donation
Written by Mark Whitehead, Tim Wright
Editing & Proofreading Kathleen Whitehead
Photos by B. B. Wright, Tim Wright, Paul McBride, Mark Whitehead
Layout by Ken Gerber
Photo Captions by Paul McBride
Games by Dave Perry
e-mail: backbayskippers@gmail.com
Vintage Regatta
A vintage model yacht regatta hosted by the Chester County Model Yacht Club in Honey Brook, Pennsylvania was held on October 14 and 15. Three skippers from the New England area attended, including Back Bay Skippers Rick Gates and Rick Laird. The model yachts are designs from the early part of the twentieth century and include V36s as well as Marbleheads of the Traditional and High Flyer classes.
Cliff Martin of the Minuteman Yacht Club finished first in his V36 class, while Rick Laird finished fourth in the Traditional Marblehead class. Cliff Martin also finished first in the High Flyer Marblehead class, and Rick Gates finished third in the High Flyer Marblehead class. Rick’s boats can be seen periodically on Back Bay in Wolfeboro.
Soling Sailing Just Didn’t Happen
We searched diligently to find a forecast that predicted wind, but to no avail. All we found were velocities of one to three mph on both Tuesday and Wednesday, which translates to artistic reflections of boats on the bay! Sadly, the Soling regatta was canceled this week, but Skippers were encouraged to sail with the US12s on Thursday.
October 19 Was All We Hoped For
We finally had a day with some wind, some sun, and seasonably warm temperatures in the 60s. After Tuesday and Wednesday were deemed too calm to sail, a fleet of nineteen different boats showed up to race. There was an even mix of 1-meter Solings and US12s, with a hybrid Marblehead being tested for the first time. The keel of Ned Lakeman’s Tippecanoe 50 collected weeds, thankfully clearing the way for other boats, but its performance was less than expected. Perhaps it was the seaweed on the keel.
On a spectacularly beautiful day with foliage in peak form, the fleet completed eleven races. With only one throw-out, it was important to stay near the front consistently. The US12s dominated the fleet, with the top seven overall finishers. However, it should be noted that our faithful commodore, Mark Whitehead, won the first two races in a Soling. Tim Wright switched from boat to boat and stayed near the front with his two US12s taking turns. John Simms, always consistent, finished right behind Tim’s two boats. In rapid succession, the US12s of Bob Strodel, Don McBride, Jim Opie, and Paul McBride finished. Mark Whitehead, on the strength of two firsts with his #12, was the first Soling in overall scores. The weed-catching Marblehead came in second in one race and ninth in the other. Next came Al Stevens, who sailed a boat donated by the New Hampshire Boat Museum, which he is starting to re-rig.
Then came a flurry of Solings. Ted Monetta, Don Cundy, Linwood Davis, Dave Corbett, and Bruce Wilhelm all did well, and had some very keen battles in the Soling fleet. Bob Strodel’s US12 sailed with a differently numbered set of sails for two races early on. After a little struggle to get the boat moving, he switched from 566 to 65 and his performance improved. Mark Bodenstab and John Cavanagh are taking advantage of the low-key, nonofficial races to hone their skills and get more time at the helm.
The pathway was full of leaf peepers, many of whom interacted with the sailors. Visitors from Boston, Idaho, and mainland China were among the people who stopped to ask questions and try their hand at RC sailing. As the season winds down, we seem to enjoy our sailing even more.
Scores Boat Type Average 438 US12 1.00 400 US12 1.50 101 US12 2.50 65 US12 3.67 10 US12 4.00 130 US12 4.80 223 US12 5.00 12 Soling 5.25 1011 Marblehead 5.50 33 US12 6.57 237 Soling 6.80 70 Soling 7.20 22 Soling 7.44 148 Soling 9.83 831 Soling 10.89 566 US12 11.00 54 Soling 11.44 1031 Soling 11.80
Videos and Photos
Previous Highlights
Score Sheets
Sailing on Back Bay
The radio-controlled model yachts are on Back Bay in Wolfeboro from 1 PM to 3 PM weekly, the Solings with their mixed companions on Tuesday and US12s plus “what you brung”on Thursday, weather permitting. Wednesday serves as an alternate day should sailing conditions be poor.
You don’t have much time to join the fun since we’re planning to pull the dock on November 2. We love to share so don’t be shy about asking to try your hand at the controls. Come watch the show or take a picture. It’s a sight to behold.
Upcoming Events:
Past Events:
e-mail: backbayskippers@gmail.com
Links: American Model Yachting Association, MinuteMan Model Yacht Club, Nashua Model Yacht Club, Marblehead Model Yacht Club, Greater Worcester Model Yacht Club, Sarasota Model Yacht Club, Space Coast Model Sailing Club, Sun Coast Model Sailing Club, Stowe Yacht Club, USS Constitution Model Shipwright Guild, Vac-U-Soling, 3D Printed Radio Yachts, US Vintage Model Yacht Group, Raritan Yacht Club RC Laser Fleet, Racing Rules of Sailing 2021-2024, Western Reserve Model Yacht Club, Joe San Antonio Fleet Donation
Written by Mark Whitehead, Tim Wright
Editing & Proofreading Kathleen Whitehead
Photos by B. B. Wright, Paul McBride, Mark Whitehead
Layout by Ken Gerber
Photo Captions by Paul McBride
Games by Dave Perry
e-mail: backbayskippers@gmail.com
A Big Thank-You to Kurt Clason
One of our winter projects is making the dozens of sailboat kits distributed to youngsters who come to watch and sail our boats. The Clason Remodeling Company of Ossipee has donated the lumber for this year’s packages, and we would like to thank Kurt Clason for his generosity.
The Sunken Ship Award
Annually our competition committee presents an award to the individual it wants to recognize for being a klutz. This year, a unanimous vote named Joel Nelson as the recipient. Joel will be remembered for leaving a cellphone in his breast pocket while launching his boat. When it slid from its hiding place to fall in the water, he spent the next twenty minutes trying to retrieve it with the boat hook. Perhaps we should award him for actually accomplishing that feat!
Winds Were a No-Show
We should have had reasonable winds, but no, that wasn’t the case. The October 10 Soling regatta was plagued by wind gaps that left us wondering what happened. The sixteen skippers who launched somehow managed to complete seven three-mark races, the final white buoy eliminated because of its refusal to bob the entire afternoon. Now and then, a nice little breeze would blow through to say hello then Mr. Nothing would show up!
Out on the Water
This week’s winds were definitely light, and the scores certainly revealed who can handle them and who can’t.
In the Sailor Class, the top spot went to Steve Towne, sailing the oldest boat in the fleet to one victory and three second-place finishes for a score of 2.00 and a decisive win. Brag away, Steve! Bruce Wilhelm accumulated a first and a second, holding his own in the light wind to place second overall with 3.00. Two firsts kept Ted Monetta in the mix with a third-place finish and a score of 3.33. This was Genie Ware’s last regatta of the season since they will be heading home to Massachusetts. Going out with a bang instead of a whimper, her score of 3.60 tied Mark Bodenstab for fourth overall.
Steve Leker scored first or second in every race this week to take top honors away from Tim Wright in the Master Class. The regatta was won by one tenth of a point at 1.33. Second-place skipper, Tim Wright, scored 1.40 and seemed determined to clear weeds from the course the second half of the regatta — something all the skippers appreciated! Joel Nelson did a masterful job scoring 3.50 for third place, and in a leaky boat, the extra weight apparently gave Bill Malay momentum to score 3.80 for fourth. Rounding out the top five with a score of 4.17 was Mark Whitehead.
Soling Sailor Class Scores
1 Steve Towne 2.00
2 Bruce Wilhelm 3.00
3 Ted Monetta 3.33
4 Genie Ware 3.60
4 Mark Bodenstab 3.60
6 Linwood Davis 3.83
7 Skip Koehler 5.60
8 John Barstow 6.80
9 John Cavanaugh 7.50
10 Dave Corbett 8.67 Soling Master Class Scores
1 Steve Leker 1.33
2 Tim Wright 1.40
3 Joel Nelson 3.50
4 Bill Malay 3.80
5 Mark Whitehead 4.17
6 Denis Boisvert 4.20 
October 12 a Lucky Day
Although the temperature was cool, even chilly, on this “Sail What You Bring” day, the wind was just about perfect. We were treated to wonderful sailing, and many spectators watched and even tried their hand at the sport. Yes, there were wind shifts. Yes, there were some dead spots. But overall, the sailing was ideal as two Solings joined the six US12s.
Thanks to B. B. Wright, our scorekeeper, we were able to complete fifteen races, the boats at the start keeping B. B. on her toes. Most of the sailors are getting very good at timing their runs towards the line, but occasionally one would cut it a little too close. Skills are getting honed and fun was definitely had by all. The quality of our sailing has improved tremendously.
Out on the Water with the US12s
One of our newer Soling sailors, Dave Corbett, showed a lot of improvement, trying to keep up with the US12s. By the end of the day, he had beaten some of them, finishing with an average of 6.13. Next was one of our photographers, Paul McBride. He tends to sacrifice his finishes to get action shots for sharing on the website. He sailed in every race and landed a score of 4.46.
Next up were five finishers all within a point of each other. Ted Monetta, sailing a borrowed US12 in ten races, finished with a score of 3.89, having one second-place finish. Ted’s Soling finished just ahead with a 3.33 score, thanks in part to the boat’s two first-place finishes by Tim Wright. Next, at 3.15, was Don Cundy. He sailed in all fifteen races, and had six second-place finishes. Anthony Quinn had a good day, sailing in ten races. He had three second-place finishes and placed consistently well. John Simms had a 2.91 average, and finished second five times in his eleven races. Tim Wright had a good day, winning every race, but facing steep challenges. It seemed like everyone took a run at him, but he was able to hold them off.
We were treated to a wonderful afternoon of sailing. We encourage our Soling sailors to practice with the US12s in a relaxed setting until the weather shuts us down. Bring whatever you want to sail and share in the fun!
US12 Scores Average Sail Number Class 1.00 400 US12 2.64 101 US12 3.00 937 US12 3.15 20 US12 3.33 237 Soling 1M 3.89 35 US12 4.46 223 US12 6.13 148 Soling 1M
Videos and Photos
Previous Highlights
Score Sheets
Sailing on Back Bay
The radio-controlled model yachts are on Back Bay in Wolfeboro from 1 PM to 3 PM weekly, the Solings with their mixed companions on Tuesday and US12s plus “what you brung”on Thursday, weather permitting. Wednesday serves as an alternate day should sailing conditions be poor.
You don’t have much time to join the fun since we’re planning to pull the dock on November 2. We love to share so don’t be shy about asking to try your hand at the controls. Come watch the show or take a picture. It’s a sight to behold.
Upcoming Events:
Past Events:
e-mail: backbayskippers@gmail.com
Links: American Model Yachting Association, MinuteMan Model Yacht Club, Nashua Model Yacht Club, Marblehead Model Yacht Club, Greater Worcester Model Yacht Club, Sarasota Model Yacht Club, Space Coast Model Sailing Club, Sun Coast Model Sailing Club, Stowe Yacht Club, USS Constitution Model Shipwright Guild, Vac-U-Soling, 3D Printed Radio Yachts, US Vintage Model Yacht Group, Raritan Yacht Club RC Laser Fleet, Racing Rules of Sailing 2021-2024, Western Reserve Model Yacht Club, Joe San Antonio Fleet Donation
Written by Mark Whitehead, Bruce Wilhelm
Editing & Proofreading Kathleen Whitehead
Photos by Karen Enos, Paul McBride, Mark Whitehead, Don San Antonio
Layout by Ken Gerber
Photo Captions by Paul McBride
Games by Dave Perry
e-mail: backbayskippers@gmail.com
New Boats
The Back Bay Skippers received a very generous gift this week when Don San Antonio donated his father’s R/C boat collection. Joe San Antonio was a past commodore of the Laconia Model Yacht Club, and over the years, he accumulated several classes of boats. The Skippers certainly appreciate Don’s generosity and say “Thank you! Thank you!”
Solings Plus Plus Plus
For the regatta October 3, our fleet sailed in warm temperatures and sunshine, a decent breeze pushing them around the bay. Sixteen skippers participated in the “all-in” twelve-race event, the mix including twelve Solings, two US12s, a Vintage Marblehead, and two DF95s.
Tragically, Bill Malay dropped his boat while making repairs, the hull developing a major crack to cancel participation. Sailing the Vintage Marblehead was Rick Gates, a boat that’s hard to miss with its tall mast. The US12s included one of the donated boats carefully readied by Al Stevens as well as Tim Wright’s #400 sailed by Denis Boisvert. Steve Leker and Al Stevens brought and sailed the DF95s.
Out on the Water
In the Master Class, Tim Wright’s #383 as usual led the way, earning an overall score of 1.7 to carry the day. Steve Leker competed in only five Soling races but sailed to a bunch of second-place finishes and a score of 2.2 for second place. Tom Barstow had some hard-fought races and placed third with a 4.7. Mark Whitehead couldn’t seem to get a decent start but he snuck into fourth place with three third-place finishes and a score of 5.9. Tallying a score of 6.2, Denis Boisvert had a first and rounded out the top five.
The Sailor Class’s Jeff Witzel led the way in his brand new, very fast boat. Jeff posted an impressive 3.1 with a first and a couple of seconds. Second place went to Ted Monetta with a score of 5.7. John Barstow placed third scoring 6.7, Bruce Wilhelm sailed to fourth place scoring 7.9, and Dick Currier’s improved skill maneuvered him to a score of 9.4 and fifth place.
Scores for Other Class Boats: The #400 US12 scored 1.7 The #33 US12 scored 4.9 The #6 Marblehead scored 4.0 The #94 DF95 scored 4.8 The #1819 DF95 scored 12.
US12 Sailing on Thursday by Bruce Wilhelm
Six sailors, including five US12s and one lone Soling, gathered for another light-air regatta. While the lack of wind was a bit frustrating at times, we were able to get ten races in. Don Cundy dominated, winning eight of the ten races. The other two were won by Jim Opie and Bruce Wilhelm. In fact, Bruce Wilhelm sailed for “the cycle” (using a baseball metaphor) and placed first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth in at least one race. Jim Opie had a good day and collected quite a few seconds as well. It was a beautiful day and our resident loon came to visit about ten feet from the dock.
A special thank-you goes to Karen Enos for taking over US12 scorekeeping duties for the day.
Thursday Scores Name Class Sail % Races Score Place Cundy, Don US12 20 100% 1.5 1 Opie, Jim US12 130 80% 2.88 2 Strodel, Robert US12 65 80% 3 3 McBride, Paul US12 223 100% 3.4 4 Wilhelm, Bruce US12 267 90% 3.67 5 Monetta, Ted Soling 237 90% 5.44 6
Videos and Photos
Previous Highlights
Score Sheets
Sailing on Back Bay
The radio-controlled model yachts are on Back Bay in Wolfeboro from 1 PM to 3 PM weekly, the Solings on Tuesday and US12s plus
“what you brung”on Thursday, weather permitting. Wednesday serves as an alternate day should sailing conditions be poor.
Join the fun! We love to share so don’t be shy about asking to try your hand at the controls. Come watch the show or take a picture. It’s a sight to behold.
Upcoming Events:
Past Events:
e-mail: backbayskippers@gmail.com
Links: American Model Yachting Association, MinuteMan Model Yacht Club, Nashua Model Yacht Club, Marblehead Model Yacht Club, Greater Worcester Model Yacht Club, Sarasota Model Yacht Club, Space Coast Model Sailing Club, Sun Coast Model Sailing Club, Stowe Yacht Club, USS Constitution Model Shipwright Guild, Vac-U-Soling, 3D Printed Radio Yachts, US Vintage Model Yacht Group, Raritan Yacht Club RC Laser Fleet, Racing Rules of Sailing 2021-2024, Western Reserve Model Yacht Club, Joe San Antonio Fleet Donation
Written by Mark Whitehead, Tim Wright
Editing & Proofreading Kathleen Whitehead
Photos by B. B. Wright, Tim Wright, Paul McBride, Mark Whitehead
Layout by Ken Gerber
Photo Captions by Paul McBride
Games by Dave Perry
e-mail: backbayskippers@gmail.com
Bow Lake Laser Regatta
On Sunday, September 24, the annual Laser Regatta hosted by Bow Lake Sailing MYC was held. Fifteen Skippers from most of New England’s states participated, Tim Wright and Paul McBride representing Back Bay Skippers. Our own champion Tim Wright was declared the winner.
1: Tim Wright Ossipee, NH BBS 2: Michael Hoydis Gorham, ME BLSMYC 3: Bob Shapiro Wilmington, MA BLSMYC 4: Glenn Chalder Simsbury, CT 5: Nathaniel Hendrickson Dover, NH BLSMYC
Solings’ Last Regatta of September
The September 26 nine-race Soling regatta was attended by seventeen skippers. The Master Class had five yachts while the Sailor Class launched ten. Adding to the excitement was Tim Wright sailing his Laser and Rick Gates at the helm of his V36.
An unusual northeast wind greeted the skippers, making it a real challenge to sail to the marks. It seemed like every tack made by the skippers carried them further away from the layline than toward it.
In sailboat racing, a layline is an imaginary line extending from the objective (typically a racing mark) to indicate the point at which a boat should tack or jibe in order to just clear the mark on the correct side (weather side if upwind tacking, leeward side if downwind jibing).
Butch Lalime, sailing #126, has finished his 2023 stint as a Back Bay Skipper, soon heading south for Florida’s sailing season. Good luck, Butch!
Solings on the Water
After repairing his rudder post broken last week, Al Posnack led the way in the Master Class, posting a score of 2.3. Whatever he did worked! There was a tie for second between Denis Boisvert and Mark Whitehead, both posting a 3.6 – Denis with two second-place finishes, Mark with a first and a second. Don McBride sailed to fourth place with a 4.0, and Bob Brennan was fifth with a score of 4.8.
Sailing his #94 Laser, Tim Wright scored a 1.0 with an impressive five wins, which would put him in first place over the Solings. In preparation for this weekend’s V36 regatta in Pennsylvania, Rick Gates sailed in order to achieve optimum tuning. His 4.6 score would have put him in fifth place, if Solings were included.
Despite sore arms from finishing the outside of his house addition, Ken Gerber captured first in the Sailor Class with a score of 8.3 and bragging rights for the week. Sporting new sails, Jeff Witzel posted a score of 8.8 for second place. Always a strong contender, Genie Ware took the third slot with a score of 9.0. Linwood Davis’ score of 9.3 put him in fourth, and only one tenth of a point behind was Anthony Quinn with 9.4 for fifth. Once again the close competition was demonstrated by a separation of only 1.1 points between the top five.
Soling Master Class Scores 9/26 1 Al Posnack 2.3 2 Denis Boisvert 3.6 2 Mark Whitehead 3.6 4 Don McBride 4.0 5 Bob Brennan 4.8 1 Tim Wright 1.0 sailing #94 Laser 5 Rick Gates 4.6 sailing #1 V36
Soling Sailor Class Scores 9/26 (starting one minute behind the Master Class) 1 Ken Gerber 8.3 2 Jeff Witzel 8.8 3 Genie Ware 9.0 4 Linwood Davis 9.3 5 Anthony Quinn 9.4 6 Ted Monetta 10.3 7 Butch Lalime 11.1 8 John Barstow 13.0 9 Skip Koehler 15.0 10 Dave Corbet 16.5
A Wonderful and Unusual Day for the US12s
Thursday, September 28, was indeed unusual and fun. It had been announced as a Bring What You Want to Sail Day, and the assortment of boats sailing lived up to that title. We had multiple Solings, US12s, and Lasers. Lasers, you ask? We have two Lasers in our fleet, and they both were there. However, Bob Shapiro, of Bow Lake, brought his fleet of four, so we actually had six Lasers! In addition to that assortment, the Weetamoe, an eight-foot J Class RC model, made an appearance, and quite an appearance it was. She is 70 pounds, 93 inches long, and is equipped with a 10-foot mast. Built by Ned Lakeman, a former Back Bay Skipper now living in Florida, she has stayed in the fleet and makes an appearance at least once a year. Ned was a prolific model maker as well as a former champion here and at other regional and national events.
All of the different models in Back Bay were a sight to behold. Unfortunately, the reflections on the water were almost as clear as the real thing. We just didn’t have enough wind, although there were some helpful breezes every once in a while. To counter those winds, there was just enough debris floating in Back Bay to slow down (or stop) the Lasers and Solings. The long waterline length of Weetamoe gave her a speed advantage, and she won the four races in which she competed. The starts were quite interesting with Weetamoe blasting through the fleet of Solings, Lasers, and US12s without hitting (or sinking) any.
Thursday on the Water
On a whole, in those conditions, the US12s did best. Once they got some speed, they would coast further than the Lasers. Anthony Quinn had a very strong showing, finishing as the first non-J-boat five times in the seven races he entered. Jim Opie also did very well, finishing first once and second three times. Bob Shapiro was the top Laser sailor, finishing consistently well. Don Cundy did well with his Laser, having a first and a second. The entire group that sailed, and also those who watched, were treated to a very pleasant afternoon. There is something very satisfying about seeing so many different types of boats sailing and racing together. The spirit of helpfulness and generosity also was evident.
We would like to especially thank Bob Shapiro for bringing his Lasers, his knowledge, and his enthusiasm to Back Bay. How nice to have a chance to sail and race boats that don’t usually compete in our club. Bob came earlier in the year to sail US12s. While here, he helped put the dock back together when the high waters lifted it apart. Thank you, Bob, for what you have done to benefit the Back Bay Skippers.
We look forward to the last few weeks of sailing this season. As the leaves change colors and the ski jump gets hauled out for the winter, the sailing gets even more special. Come on down, and bring what you want to sail.
Videos and Photos
Previous Highlights
Score Sheets
Sailing on Back Bay
The radio-controlled model yachts are on Back Bay in Wolfeboro from 1 PM to 3 PM weekly, the Solings on Tuesday and US12s plus
“what you brung”on Thursday, weather permitting. Wednesday serves as an alternate day should sailing conditions be poor.
Join the fun! We love to share so don’t be shy about asking to try your hand at the controls. Come watch the show or take a picture. It’s a sight to behold.
Upcoming Events:
Past Events:
e-mail: backbayskippers@gmail.com
Links: American Model Yachting Association, MinuteMan Model Yacht Club, Nashua Model Yacht Club, Marblehead Model Yacht Club, Greater Worcester Model Yacht Club, Sarasota Model Yacht Club, Space Coast Model Sailing Club, Sun Coast Model Sailing Club, Stowe Yacht Club, USS Constitution Model Shipwright Guild, Vac-U-Soling, 3D Printed Radio Yachts, US Vintage Model Yacht Group, Raritan Yacht Club RC Laser Fleet, Racing Rules of Sailing 2021-2024, Western Reserve Model Yacht Club
Written by Mark Whitehead, Tim Wright
Editing & Proofreading Kathleen Whitehead
Photos by B. B. Wright, Al Posnack, Paul McBride, Mark Whitehead
Layout by Ken Gerber
Photo Captions by Paul McBride
Games by Dave Perry
e-mail: backbayskippers@gmail.com
The 2023 Season Leaders
After fourteen hard-but-happily-fought regattas for the Soling fleet and fifteen for the US12 fleet, our season champions have been crowned.
The Master Class Soling champion for the 2023 season was Tim Wright. The award for second place went to Al Posnack, with Don Cundy earning third.
Congratulations went to Anthony Quinn, champion for the 2023 Soling Sailor Class. He was followed by Steve Towne in second and Jeff Witzel in third, both new Back Bay Skippers.
For the US12 2023 season, it was Tim Wright again in first place, John Simms in second place, and Don Cundy in third.
As the competition in all classes increases, it becomes more of a challenge to maintain the high skill level to qualify in the top three – now becoming an elite group of skippers!
Summer Series
Within the regatta season there are two eight-week series, one in the summer and one in the fall. The winners for the Summer Series also were announced.
For the Soling Master Class, it was Tim Wright in first, Al Posnack in second, and Tom Barstow in third.
Top three in the Soling Sailor Class were Jeff Witzel in first, Ken Gerber in second, and Genie Ware in third.
Kudos in the US12 Summer Series went to Tim Wright, first; John Simms, second; and Don Cundy, third.
Promotions
We try to keep the fleets balanced by promoting the top skippers in our Sailor Class to the Master Class. The top skippers in the Sailor Class who earned that promotion this year were Anthony Quinn, Steve Towne, Ken Gerber, Jeff Witzel, and Ted Monetta. Congratulations to all!
Nothing Like Fall Sailing
HOORAH! Sunshine and a decent wind — a wonderful combination for the Back Bay Skippers. Despite rescheduling to our alternate day due to Tuesday’s strong winds, the number of skippers remained high at nineteen who launched Wednesday, September 20. The two classes completed eleven races — something we haven’t accomplished in weeks!
Joining us for his northern stint was Butch Lalime, class of 2021. Butch purchased George Greathead’s Number 126 so he would have a northern boat and a southern boat.
Once the official season ends, scoring changes just a bit. The average score is based only on the races finished, minus a throw-out for every six races. Scores are not accumulated as they are during the regular season — it’s strictly week-by-week bragging rights.
Solings on the Water
Those who could thump their chests and brag were the ones whose sailing prowess could handle the heftier winds this week. In the Master Class, the best in all conditions, Tim Wright with nine wins and a score of 1.0 won the day. Claiming a lack of concentration, Don Cundy had seven second-place finishes and a score of 2.0 for the second spot. Al Posnack, before he broke his rudder shaft, had a first and two thirds, posting a score of 2.7 for third place. With a second and four thirds, Mark Whitehead posted a score of 3.6 for fourth place. Rounding out the top five, Don McBride with a second and three fourths scored 3.7 for fifth place. That is only 2.7 points separating first and fifth.
Master Class Scores 9/20 1 Tim Wright 1.0 2 Don Cundy 2.0 3 Al Posnack 2.7 4 Mark Whitehead 3.6 5 Don McBride 3.7 6 Bill Malay 4.3 7 Paul McBride 5.9 8 Tom Barstow 6.0
A few of the Sailor Class Skippers struggled with tuning from light wind to the heavier wind, but when the spray settled, it was Steve Towne in his twenty-five-year-old boat, #61, who ruled the day with a score of 5.8. A strong contender, Genie Ware scored 7.1 for the second spot, and Anthony Quinn sailed to third place scoring 7.9. Tying for fourth were Jeff Witzel and John Barstow, each with a score of 8.1.
Sailor Class Scores 9/20 1 Steve Towne 5.8 2 Genie Ware 7.1 3 Anthony Quinn 7.9 4 Jeff Witzel 8.1 4 John Barstow 8.1 6 Linwood Davis 11.1 7 Bruce Brown 11.3 8 Butch Lalime 13.3 9 Dave Corbett 16.0
US12 Sailing
September 21, a great day of sailing, it was a cool, crisp day with sporadic winds and we sailed a variety of boats. Many Soling sailors came to join the US12s. Several skippers either switched boats or loaned their boats, so scoring was not easy. Do you score the boat or the skipper? For the sake of our web scorer, Wes Matchett, we will score the boat regardless of who was sailing it. It’s all unofficial anyway.
Today’s idyllic conditions made scoring seem less important. The sailing was less intense and more fun. People had the time to help others tune their boats and help solve problems. In fact, two Soling sailors came with no boats. Each sailed three races with loaned US12s. Even Sabra McBride, wife of sailor Don McBride, felt comfortable enough to bravely try her hand at racing a US12. She finished the race in the middle of the pack! The pace was relaxed and the fun was evident.
We were all winners just for showing up and taking part. Thanks to our scorekeeper, B. B. Wright, who tried to keep up with the skipper and boat switches, until it was suggested that she just score the boats as they crossed, without regard to who was sailing the boat each race. We look forward to another wonderful day of sailing next Thursday.
There are rumors that an 8-foot J boat will make an appearance next week. It was made by a former Back Bay Skipper who was a sailing champion: Ned Lakeman. This boat has passed through several hands since then. With its 10-foot mast, it will be quite a sight to see on the bay!
We welcome sailors of other classes to our US12 regatta — the more the merrier!
US12s on the Water
The scoring for the US12 (and friends) sailing today was different than usual. Due to the switching of sailors and boats, each boat received a score but not the skipper. Since we are no longer counting the scores “officially,” there will be no throw-out score. These are all the scores for each boat, averaged. However, due to my curious nature, I also calculated scores with throw-outs. Coincidentally, when scored using a throw-out, the positions didn’t change, although the score for #101 came down to 3.00, equaling the score of #35, which didn’t sail in enough races to earn a throw-out after losing a shroud.
US12 and Soling Scores 9/21
Boat # Type Score
(no throw) w/throw out
438 US12 2.90 2.44
35 US12 3.00 3.00
101 US12 3.44 3.00
20 US12 3.80 3.44
130 US12 3.89 3.63
10 US12 4.13 3.71
937 US12 5.14 4.33
223 US12 6.33 5.88
61 Soling 6.60 6.60
237 Soling 8.10 7.78
22 Soling 8.56 8.25
126 Soling 9.00 9.00
148 Soling 9.33 9.33
Videos and Photos
Previous Highlights
Score Sheets
Sailing on Back Bay
The radio-controlled model yachts are on Back Bay in Wolfeboro from 1 PM to 3 PM weekly, the Solings on Tuesday and US12s plus “what you brung”on Thursday, weather permitting. Wednesday serves as an alternate day should sailing conditions be poor.
Join the fun! We love to share so don’t be shy about asking to try your hand at the controls. Come watch the show or take a picture. It’s a sight to behold.
Upcoming Events:
Past Events:
e-mail: backbayskippers@gmail.com
Links: American Model Yachting Association, MinuteMan Model Yacht Club, Nashua Model Yacht Club, Marblehead Model Yacht Club, Greater Worcester Model Yacht Club, Sarasota Model Yacht Club, Space Coast Model Sailing Club, Sun Coast Model Sailing Club, Stowe Yacht Club, USS Constitution Model Shipwright Guild, Vac-U-Soling, 3D Printed Radio Yachts, US Vintage Model Yacht Group, Raritan Yacht Club RC Laser Fleet, Racing Rules of Sailing 2021-2024, Western Reserve Model Yacht Club