Recap – Shell Lake 2019

Breaking News….. TEAM WISCONSIN PUT THE BOOTS TO MINNESOTA AGAIN. Yes, winning never gets old. Wisconsin has found the formula for success. Sail smart, bring more boats and try to start on time weather permitting to prevent a serious game of bar dice from impairing our young bucks. This wasn’t followed 100% but yet we prevailed none the less.  Minnesota didn’t roll over and die, putting up a good fight with stealthy Howard magically being transported to A mark each weather leg. Brent’s good sailing with the help of his highly trained crew Matt who studied extensively under the exceptional guidance of his mentor, THE SILVER FOX formerly known as Shifty in the “light and shifty” days went on to break a tie breaker beating TSF in the last race and  going  on to  finish second overall. Brian and Daniel seemed to constantly be impacted by the Shell Lake Stream currents that we all have experienced off and on over the years pulling them left, then right off course. Dave wasn’t hit by anyone and Randy showed moments of brilliance followed by the rest of the moments. Clay and new crew Kate were determined competitors never to be counted out and ultimately finishing third beating the aforementioned author in a tie breaker resulting in my literary skill set being put to the test and coming up short once again. In the end, it was the K&T team even with their complaints of sailing badly that were the overall victors leading Wisconsin to a rock solid victory and the coveted rudder once again. Thanks goes out to Ed with his ever present traveling hardware store and pricing that can’t be beat, to the Reese team who finished all the races and  brought my dog Bella a nylon snack (sorry once again Michelle), but the real thanks goes to Chris and Brent for making this event happen and a killer breakfast surprise…… On a serious note, I ask that your prayers go out to Gary Chu for a speedy and complete recovery. He cracked his pelvis having fallen off his bike while riding across Iowa with Diane in Ragbria 10 days ago. He destroyed his helmet but suffered no other injuries and is walking immediately after the tramau with the aid of a walker. Perhaps Debbie can loan him her cane with mirror and horn attached. Please, may you all thank Him for your blessings today. Sincerely,  TSF

Christopher Blake