by Burke Thomas

Sailing coach

Twenty-eight laser sailors from 12 high schools attended the 2010 Northwest District of the Interscholastic Sailing Association Single-handed Championships, hosted by Sail Orcas, Orcas Island Yacht Club and the Orcas Island High School sailing team, September 3 to 5 in West Sound.

Sailors took advantage of the good weather and practiced Friday afternoon under sunny skies and an eight to 12 knot westerly. Saturday dawned with a high overcast and race #1 for both fleets was started in a light easterly at noon. The easterly gave up halfway through the race, which was abandoned. Sailors took a lunch break as the RC moved the course west into the building south-westerly. The sun broke through the overcast and 10 races were completed. The racing was close in both fleets and the conditions were excellent. Sunday saw a light southwest wind that kept sailors alert to pressure changes. Seven races were completed before time expired for the day. Teddy Weaver from Gig Harbor High School dominated the Laser full rig, while Jake White from Orcas Island High School had a narrow victory over second place Abby Hartmann from Bainbridge Island High School. Weaver and White will travel to St. Petersburg, Florida to represent NWISA at the ISSSA High School Singlehanded Championships on October 30 to 31.

A big thanks to Ian Wareham and his supporting staff, Jeff Rodenberger, Scott Boye, Chris White, Dominique Wareham and Carly Temple-Wareham. Also thanks to Bob Brunius, Wally Gilliam and Eric Smith providing the coach boats that got everyone out on the water, and the Orcas moms who stuffed everyone with food.