Harbor 20 Fleet 1 Tuning Day
The first ever Tuning Day for the Harbor 20 Fleet 1 members and guests took place today in Newport Beach, CA under sunny skies and temperatures in the high 60s. The purpose of the event was to share tuning tips, make rig adjustments and socialize with fellow sailors. The turnout was outstanding with over 60 attendees of this four-hour event, representing over 40 Harbor 20s, 20 of them arriving and docking European style at Balboa Boat Yard!
Those attending included the host of the event, Pat Werner of Balboa Boat Yard, Alexander Vucelic of the WD Schock Company that produces our beautiful one-design class sailboats, Harry Pattison of Elliott/Pattison Company, the maker of the main sail, and Phil Toft of Ullman Sails, maker of the jib sail.
Emile Pilafidis, Fleet 1 Captain, welcomed the sailors and introduced Pat, Alexander, Harry, and Phil, as well top H20 sailors in attendance that included Phil Ramser, Bob Yates, Jon Pinckney, Carter Ford, Terry Gloege, Peter Haynes, Gary Thorne, Walter Johnson and others.
John Whitney, Fleet 1 Measurer and official scorer was introduced, as was Michael Volk, Fleet 1 Board member who was recognized for being one of the main forces behind organizing this event. Harry Pattison and Phil Toft presented sail trimming and rigging tips and then fielded many questions from the crowd.
Alexander Vucelic spoke about how the founders of the H20 Class had created something special and unique that continues to grow. He proudly announced that the factory just produced H20 #345 that is headed for Newport Beach. He then talked briefly about H20 #89 that had been refurbished and was displayed on a trailer. Finally, Alexander stated that WD Schock is dedicated to continuous improvement. He closed by introducing Carol who runs the customer service department at the factory. Carol brought a selection of spare parts to the event and later assisted sailors with their purchases. Balboa Boat Yard had boat #209 on display with a new bottom paint.
Walter Johnson spoke at length about the updated tuning guide he has created based on his experience racing H20 #221, combined with his discussions with top sailors such as Bill Menninger. Walter provided copies of his tuning guide to all interested sailors and then answered numerous questions. He also conducted many on-the-dock demonstrations as to the correct rig tune.
Peter Haynes, H20 Class President, also spoke to the group regarding the upcoming March 9 seminar at BCYC on boat handling and sail trim.
A number of skippers and crew members worked on their boats during the event, sharing information, and learning from each other as well as from more experienced sailors. Finally, complements of the Fleet 1 Board of Directors, a light lunch and refreshments were graciously served by Ellen Reader on her beautiful red Duffy “Skal”.
Testimonials for this event are already coming in:
“Today was a great event, with more information available than you could absorb in just 4 hours. The “hands on” opportunities were wonderful and the tuning and trimming tips from the sail makers and master sailors, outstanding.
I hope you plan to make this at least an annual event. I for one will be at every Tune Up event.”
“Thank you guys for the putting on the day. It was excellent. I really appreciated everyone’s effort. This really is a special fleet and fine group of individuals! Thanks again.”
“It is an inspiration to see the Corinthian spirit in action among the Fleet. See everyone next weekend ! “
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