14th December Frostbite Series – Race 1

Force 3 for the first rounds of the Frostbite series on Sunday.

14 boats made it out for the pursuit race, with Paul W (Morbic) setting off first, with Ron close behind in his Mirror.

The wind slowly built throughout the race with some large shifts, giving several sailors a helping hand. Karen & Chris H (Both Comets) were the lead boats after the first lap, with Newton & Ralph close behind, both in Solos. They passed both Karen & Chris on the second beat, with Newton taking the lead.

Further back, James P & Hugh were trading places, both in ILCA 7’s. Steve meanwhile was charging through the fleet in his Blaze.

At the finish gun, Newton was in the lead, Ralph was 2nd. The final podium place was hotly contested between Karen, Hugh & Steve. A dodgy gybe from Steve meant Hugh stayed ahead finishing 3rd.

All racers remained out for the handicap race as the wind built further. Steve S & Mark B (AERO7) gained an early lead. Hugh was close behind before capsizing at the gybe mark. Not wanting to be outdone, Ralph capsized twice on the subsequent leg and required assistance, forcing his retirement.

Newton meanwhile opted for a 270 manoeuvre rather than a gybe, but ended up lodged on the Buoy line, ending his race.

A capsize from both Aeros of Mark & Richard G rounded off the capsizes of the day. Richard was able to continue, but Mark retired.

Hugh meanwhile had caught up with James & were having a close race, with Richard close behind.

Steve crossed the line 1st, with Hugh 2nd & James 3rd.

On handicap, Hugh finished 1st, James 2nd & Steve 3rd.

A big thank you to Peter S & his team for running the racing on Sunday & for providing excellent safety boat cover.

After the race, there was Soup, made by Sally.

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