Racing – Sunday 6th April

Another day of shifty winds from the North East as we settle into the Spring Series. A Force 3/4 for most of the race with the odd lull dotted about.

It was great to see 17 boats out today which gave some fantastic racing.

The Pursuit Race started with Adrian in his Avon Scow, followed by Will S in a Topper. They both had a great early race, and it took the rest of the fleet most of the race to get near them. Only in the last minute did Karen get through to finish first in her Comet. Will was second, and Chris H third, also in a Comet. Elsewhere in the race, James P set off too early, who to his credit admitted his error and retired from the race. Darren and Newton in their Solos had a great fight for 4th, but it was Darren who won that particular battle.

An adjusted course for the second race led to a large port end bias, a few in the fleet took advantage of this and sailed clear of the rest of the fleet. Particularly Mark in his Aero, who sailed off into the distance. The pressure must have got to him, as he promptly capsized and ended up retiring.

Hugh and James sailed clear of the fleet, having a great fight the whole way. Not clear enough though, as despite crossing the line 1st and 2nd, the slower boats were too close on Handicap and both were relegated to 4th and 5th.

Will S kept up with the fleet in his much slower Topper, taking advantage of tactics and racing rules to push the much faster boats out at each of the marks.

Will ended up finishing 1st on Handicap by more than a 2 minute margin, followed by Karen 2nd and Newton 3rd.

Thanks to Ron and his team for running the racing today.

Bacon Rolls were also on offer after the racing today, due to popular demand. Made by Ann.