J/24 EASTER REGATTA

Paul Abdullah’s Team Tarheel Finishes Strong With Five Bullets

Easter came earlier this year but didn’t stop anyone from having a great time at the 2018 J/24 Easter Regatta at the Columbia Sailing Club. Eighteen teams were blessed to fabulous conditions and the excellent hospitality from the club and its members who made all feel very welcome.

Friday’s conditions started out 10-15 knots and slowly dropped to 7-12 as the day went on. The Saturday’s forecast wasn’t great, but what do those weathermen know! The winds blew and the PRO was able to get another four races off. Team Tarheel started the regatta strong with a 1-2-1-1 and remained strong on Saturday with a 2-1-1-2.

There was little breeze early Sunday morning and the PRO postponed waiting until the wind filled in. After 20 minutes passed, the RC decided it was time to race. Team Tarheel closed it out finishing 3rd, and using that as their drop. The RC sent the fleet in with the 2018 Easter Regatta in the books.

We caught up with Tarheel’s skipper Paul Abdullah:

Paul, 5 bullets! What were the 3 key factors for team Tarheel to have such success?

Our boat speed was incredible! Knowing what mode to sail in with each pressure line approaching was important. Also, we attacked the wind instead of waiting for it to come to us.

Which North designs did you use?

We used the North Fat Head Mainsail, SD-TH Genoa and FR-2 Spinnaker. Boat speed and pointing was excellent.

Do you have any tips for the North Americans in Charleston?

I would always stress boat prep. Make sure everything works well for your team. Replace any lines or blocks that aren’t working properly.
Charleston has a lot of current. Understand the depths of the harbor and where you can “hide” from current.

Thanks Paul and congratulations for a brilliant regatta!

Learn more about the North fast J/24 designs.