Tuks’s sailors will have a score to settle next month when they take to the water to compete at the USSA Regatta on the Western Cape’s Theewaterskloof Dam.
Last year, Tuks missed out by one point in qualifying for the quarterfinals. Chris van Heerden, who will skipper one of the Tuks boats, expects last year’s USSA champions, Ikeys, to win again. So, the real battle will be for silver and bronze. According to Van Heerden, a lot will depend on what happens if Tuks and Maties get to battle it out on the water.
“We had a good buildup to USSA’s winning about 80% of our races. Not many crews could beat us in light, windy conditions. Admittedly, the conditions of Theewaterskloof Dam are different. The wind is more unpredictable. Still, I am confident that the lessons learned from racing on the Theewaterskloof Dam last year will stand us in good stead.
“Competing at USSA’s makes for exciting races. It can’t be helped. In match racing, a lot of strategies come into play. It is never only about the wind. It is essential to know the rules because it can be used to your advantage in a race.
“Sailing demands attention, creates challenges, and helps you understand your own strengths. Every moment on the water is different. You have to be able to react and deal with any situation that comes your way. It is a challenge that we as sailors relish.”
According to Van Heerden at USSA, two teams of three boats face each other in a contest. The winner is the team who scores the least points. So it is essential to race to win and get your other two boats high up in the placings.
How does it work on the boat?
“We are two in a boat. As the skipper, I would steer and control the main sail. The crew, as it is called, is responsible for balancing the boat. A mono-hull ship tends to be unstable. So, the crew member continuously acts as a counterbalance. Whoever is the crew is also vital to race tactics because they have an advantage to see where the other boats are.”
Van Heerden, who studies mechanical engineering, is a newcomer to sailing.
“I actually grew up in the motorsport industry. However, motorsport and sailing attract the same people. So, it made sense for me to join TuksYachting when I came to Tuks.”
The USSA Regatta will take place from 12-14 December.