San Diego, Calif.
October 6, 2007

The U.S. Olympic Trials for the Tornado Class got under way today in moderate sailing conditions that got fresher as the day wore on. As we finished the second race of the day, the wind was up to 16-17 knots.

Advanced Equities I, Sail # 808 punches off the start line at full speed

While it wasn’t a gale, the fresh stuff was a challenge for Sarah Newberry and me on Advanced Equities II. This was our new team’s first opportunity to sail in wind this strong and it showed in our results. Our finishes were 5-6 but the results don’t show that we were only 30 seconds out of third place in the first race of the day. As the lightest and newest crew combination at the event we’re looking for big improvements in the days ahead.

Sarah Newberry on the wire aboard Advanced Equities II

In the first race Johnnie and Charlie got the start they wanted but lost their ability to cover their opponents when they were slowed momentarily by a bunch of kelp and Daniel tacked away. Our guys kept the pressure on and were gaining on the first run as the boats passed the schooner America which was a spectator boat. They underestimated her wind shadow and again let Daniel get clear. Advanced Equities I went on a prolonged attack down the last run, jibing nearly 30 times, but the leaders matched their moves and sailed a conservative race to finish first.

Mark rounding action aboard Advanced Equities I

Our host club is the San Diego Yacht Club. We’ll be racing out on Coronado Roads every day through October 14, with the 10th set aside as layday or makeup day. We’ll have a daily update for you here, plus full Tornado Trials Results. The photos featured here are courtesy Carl Hancock. More excellent photos can be viewed on the SDYC Photo Gallery. Be sure to visit our website at www.t-squaredracing.com. Our sponsor, Advanced Equities, is at www.advancedequities.com.

Sail fast,

Drew Wierda - Team Advanced Equities II