Golison takes early lead at Viper 640 North American Championship

Shoreacres, Texas (October 9, 2013) – The first day of the Viper 640 North American Championship completed three races for the 29 teams. Jay Golison currently holds a narrow two point lead over Jason Carroll, with Malcolm Gefter one point further back in third. Racing continues to Saturday, October 12.  Current results.

Additional report from Rachel Ellis, Viper Class Admin…

Thanks to all the hard work over the past couple of months, the newest location of the North Americans, Houston, has gotten underway. A total of 29 boats made the trip to the Republic of Texas, with boats representing 14 different states. Racing began today and will conclude on Saturday, October 12th.

After months of waiting, the fun finally started. The first race started with light winds of about 5-6 knots and was windward/leeward twice around. Malcolm Gefter and crew (Wilem van Waay and Victor Diaz Deleon) took an early lead in the first race but Jay Golison and crew (Steve Flam and Chet Proctor) were able to edge out and take first place.

Breeze built from 5 to 8 knots throughout the day as a cold front from Tropical Storm Karen provided some relief (84 degrees) from the typical Texas heat. Winds were shifting from 90-230 degrees but on average competitors saw about 115 degree wind angle.

Jason Carroll and crew (Chad Corning and Danny Pletsch) took the lead and finished with a bullet in the 2nd race. Carroll also recently won the 2013 Melges 32 Worlds. Race 3 saw the most wind, with a sea breeze topping out a 8 knots. Racing was tight in the last races with 2nd through 6th place boats all finishing within 3 seconds. Luke Lawerance and crew took the bullet with the race ending in an upwind finish.