Catch the Cooper 2011

Catch the Cooper Regatta was held at the site of several of the Masters National races so it was a familiar venue to many. However, just to make sure we were reading the race materials, the races were held on a different part of the course. Overall it was smoothly run - the course was well-buoyed, the heats started on time (even if it meant a bit of a scramble at the docs), the last race was at 1PM and while there was not a large number of attendees the competition was strong. 

Other amenities such as a grassy area in the shade to put chairs and boats, showers (again!) and a free lunch made it even better. There were a few things that made it less that the perfect event, such as the short centers and only medals for first place, but these did not detract much from the experience.

Both Masters Women and Men participated, with the men bringing what seemed to be hundreds of singles. Thanks to some crafty strapping, they all manged to fit on the trailer. There were several close finishes and the mixed 8+ managed to squeeze out a first.