I believe I'll be the first to report on this years sixth annual Cruiser Challenge. I had to get home early to attend to other pressing items, so, I thought I pass along some of the fun we had today. At the last minute, and a bit out of the blue... Bob Becker with his 1982 M-15 "Bijou" asked if I would like to be added ballast (crew) during this years races. I can't tell you all how excited I was and how quick I called him back to say YES! For the most part, The winds were a bit light and we had a beautiful 75 degree sunny day. Judy Blumhorst (Sp?) of the Potter Yachters was M.c.'ing the event and other than a bit of confusion as to which buoy M/H/1 or maybe 4? That the race was to pass to port, the event was a kick. There were to be three races each to last about an hour. We finished the first, at who knows what standing and due to lack of energy, motivation or something ... decided it was more important to be the first to the Monterey Peninsula Yacht Club Bar. There were a few M-15's about and lots of P-15 & P-19. I got the opportunity to see the bottom and the top of a Compact 19 keel boat... Nice hull! There was a cat boat, a cat boat yawl, and I believe there was a Catalina 22 in the race or maybe he was just passing through. And much to my dismay - No M-17's!!! I somehow expected to see "Alina" at the head of the pack. Guess the new owners were just to busy. Maybe next year. I had thought I would take a bunch of pictures but only snapped a couple. Nothing of great value. Bob and I both had a ball. The CC-6 was described as a fun run and if you finished at least one race... you were a winner. I didn't stay for the awards ceremony so I'm not certain, but "Bijou" should have trophy'd. At least for being first to the bar! Side note, some of you in the past have mentioned meeting Bob's better half. I thought maybe Judy was Bob's daughter at first. I got a few points for mentioning this. Those of you who know Bob and Judy know what I mean. What an attractive lady. Like I mentioned Bob... You got lucky there! In case you were trying to keep your find a secret... sorry. Yea... I know, I got a little loose after a few (who's counting) drinks. I did walk it off for a bit until I felt legal and, I made it home just fine. I believe next year, we should go out and find each of the buoys the day before so we can lead the others, instead of following the lost boats. Sort of felt like... "Hey, he tacked, must be we should too." Most of us, maybe no one found buoy No 1. But, I do believe we all had a real good time . Thanks Bob and Judy! You're the best! Thanks to the Potter Yachters and Small Crat Advisor for putting it together.