Written by Jason Weisberg – USA82

The weekend of November 7th 8 Vipers gathered from north and South to compete at the Lake Norman YC Carolina Keel One Design regatta. The sailors could not have asked for a more beautiful setting.
The conditions on the first day were somewhat shifty but fair while we had wind that ranged from 7-15knts. The lake provided a beautiful backdrop of fall foliage as we race up and down the 1.1 mile legs. With the exception of an equipment failure for Justin Chambers and co. and mental failures by myself and crew, the day provided some exciting racing. The second day proved to be more challenging with diminishing wind speeds and ultra shifty lake conditions. We started with 5-8knts and wound down to 0. Prospective new Viper owners were inserted on and off boats throughout the regatta and demos were conducted post race as well. Rondar’s Rep was on hand for the event running demos, giving tuning advice, and being an on the water coach for the fleet.

Doug Kessler won the event on a borrowed boat and Gary Umberger finished in second. It should be noted that the boat Doug won with was sold while being hauled out of the water on Sunday. Congrats to the two of you and all those that competed in the event. The social highlight of the event was a Viper party that was hosted by David Eve and his wife. Laughs, stories, and David Guggenheim’s famous NZ chops. If time allows you should all put it on your calender for next year.

Jason USA82