Olympic Games 1996

IYRU Olympic Update

Report From Savannah -- July 11

It was a peaceful day at the Olympic Yachting venue; sea conditions were ugly outside, big, confused waves, and strong wids, so no sailing on the open ocean. a lot of sailors sailed a little inside the sound, and there were a bunch of solings match-race training on the Willmington River just off the Sheraton (Olympic Marina). even that was difficult, with hurricane-induced tidal flows that resulted in very strong currents, over 2 kts in some places.

Measurement began, and set no speed records.... lots of usual problems, especially for sailors at their first Olympics, who have never seen such close, precise measurement.

Special notice and recognition to Carl Eichenlaub of the US team; Carl has been to maybe 3012 Olympics, he is an easily recognized fixture, in his overalls, floppy hat, and stoggy cigar. He is famous for his magic tricks out of his shop, his specially-equiped 20-foot shipping container, and he is also famous for his open attitude and sportsmanship, his willingness to help anyone from any country when he isn't immediately occupied by a US team problem. He has quite literally made Olympic sailing possible for a lot of sailors, from all over the world, with his ability to make/fix/change anything made from fiberglass or metal. Thanks, Carl.

IYRU Olympic Update