Waiting for the wind

No one would doubt that those who elect to take part in the nationally recognised Three Rivers Race are skilful sailors. Anyone who chooses to spend up to 24 hours sailing non-stop on the Norfolk Broads has to know what they are doing.

They need to be able to negotiate three bridges (possibly without stopping) cope with rising and falling tides, sail in the dark and avoid many hazards – such as holiday makers in boats for the first time. All in all one cannot but have respect for the competitors in this somewhat gruelling event.

However what they are not good at is waiting, and coping with unexpected delays.

This year the organisers of the race announced that there would ne a delay of one hour before the first class of boats would be allowed to start. It was nothing too complicated – simply a lack of wind. If the first boats could not get away from the start that would cause a terrible log jam in the bit of river just outside the village of Horning. Good decision – wise move.

How we spent our time

Or last minute adjustments

I just hope he wasn’t leaving

Crews were somewhat taken aback – what could they do for the next hour. The boats were ready, the crews clued up and they had no choice but to sit there.

All might have been well but for a wicked camera man, who was also taken by surprise and who decided to record the reactions of those forced to exercise some high powered inertia.  

One hour later, frustrations all over the crews left on what was to be a most enjoyable race.