The show goes on...

Claude left us on Saturday, returning to the Great White North on what was, unfortunately for him, the windiest day of the season. After a couple days off, El Norte returned with a vengeance, producing some of the most active, choppiest sailing conditions we have had here in Baja so far this Winter. We were all reeling a little from the going-away party on Friday night so it was a slow start getting on the water. The previous evening we had an emotional game of croquet at the Vela center, dinner at La Curva Restaurant, followed by a late karaoke session at Tio Pablo's. Needless to say, Claude was still in a haze when the taxi picked him up at 10am. We were all a little puffy-eyed that morning: was it the margaritas or were we just saddened by the departure of Il Pirata?

Saturday night we journeyed down to Rancho Leonero for the famous BBQ rib buffet. It is situated at the base of Flat Top, a big hill across the bay from Los Barriles. The resort had been closed all season for renovation and finally opened last week. We had planned on making a big down-winder and sailing down that afternoon, but the conditions were too rough and we ended up driving down there. We arrived early to set up the croquet course on the fine grass lawn. The hotel looks great. There is a nice new palapa roof over the dining area, the bar has been opened up a little, and the grounds are clean and tidy. The ribs were better than ever.

Sunday I finally made peace with the Starboard Evo 80 and a 5.2 Expression. The last experience I had with that small wave board was not a great one, so either I have improved as a sailor or I had the rig set up better this time. I am definitely more comfortable and in control, sailing faster than ever, and am making most of my jibes.