Close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades, so the saying goes. But Denis and Frank thought it might apply to iceboating, too. The forecast was dubious for their fair corner of Quebec yesterday, but they hauled their new, as yet un-tested, Whizzes down to Lac Abenakis anyway. Show up and pray was the mantra of the day. Alas, it was not to be. The 4″ ice was slushy on top and there wasn’t a breath of wind. But being the enthusiastic good sports they are, they set up the boats in the parking lot anyway.

We’re not sure if this counts as a sailing day; the rules committee will have to decide this one. But it was much more of a day of iceboating than had by any one else. We’re in a waiting mode while the weather tries to make up it’s mind which season it wants to be. Today is spring again, with melting snow and thawed earth. The ice is disappearing from Hosmer Pond. Nothing hopeful on the forecast. If anything positive is happening in your own neck of the woods, please let us know.

Lastly, is any one from Maine going to the tune-up clinic at Steve Lamb’s on Dec.13? I have an iceboat that needs a lift there, and a new Renegade mast to southern Maine. Thanks.