28th September – Cobley Series Race 3

Very light winds for the latest rounds of the Cobley series today.

10 boats made it out for the start of the pursuit race, with the Toppers of Elissa and Tatiana & Rob in his Mirror first to set off.

Suddenly becalmed, the rest of the fleet, consisting primarily of Comets & ILCA6’s set off in pursuit.

Aileen (Comet) was first around the windward mark, followed by Will S (ILCA6) & Chris H (Comet). Aileen was ahead for the first lap, before being overtaken by Will. With just a few minutes until the final gun, Aileen once again took the lead.

Elsewhere in the race, Tatiana (Topper) managed to pass Ron (Mirror), who had stalled at the beginning of his second lap.

Ian H (ILCA6) hit the windward mark, and in doing his penalty turn, capsized. The lack of wind provided no resistance for clambering back into the boat, and spectators were treated to a triple capsize before Ian managed to sail on.

At the finish gun, Aileen was 1st, with Will S 2nd and Chris H 3rd.

The wind built slightly, maybe even to a full knot for the Handicap race, with most boats getting a good start. Mike & Alé (470) took an early lead, followed by Will & Aileen. Aileen & Karen managed to overtake Will on the 3rd leg, having both noticed the wind shift before him.

With the wind dying, the race was a one lap wonder, with Mike & Alé crossing the line first, followed by Aileen & Karen.

On handicap, Aileen was 1st, with Karen 2nd & Mike & Alé 3rd.

A big well done to all the sailors who went out today and persevered in the trying conditions.

Thanks to Hugh & his team for running the racing today.

After the race, there were bacon rolls, made by Ann.

We’re back next Sunday for the next rounds of the Cobley Series.