Sailing Update
Single Handed Regatta
Strong westerly winds did not deter the 24 boats that took part in the single handed regatta last Sunday. Capsizes were to be found up and down the fleet and the safety crews were kept busy. So too were the ODs who were manging 4 fleets, 3 races, 2 starts, and average lap times for everyone – you did a great job.
In the Laser fleet, Tom nailed 3 firsts leaving the rest of the fleet to battle for the remaining podium places. In the end it was George followed by Simon but that does not reflect the close racing throughout the fleet.
In the Solo fleet Phil was set to win the first race, but missed the penultimate mark allowing Steve to overtake and sneak the win. Steve then went on to win the nest race, securing 1st and with Phil securing 2nd this left Kevin to take 3rd place. None of them needed to take part in the 3rd race.
In the Menagerie fleet, Freddie took his Tera up against the Radials, managing to battle boat for boat around the course despite the small boat. In the end he had taken 3 first and the win overall, knocking his brother, Will, into second, and leaving Eva in third.
The Silver fleet was dominated by Stella in her 4.7 taking all 3 wins. A special mention to Dan who came 4th as he grapples with a full rig Laser having recently graduated into the Improvers group. There was a lot of capsizes regardless of experience, keep up the good work. Ed took second place to add to the Sunderland trophy case and Gavin who sailed the races in a Hartley took the third.
Wednesday racing
Even though the water was receding, 20 boats still went out to battle around in a nice South Westerly breeze. A busy start line meant boats were forced over and if you didn’t get a good start then it was battling from the back.
Tom took off in clear air and was being chased down by Chris & Stella who did their best despite finding the ground a few times. By the end of the race Tom had broken free and easily took the win.
As it stands Phil leads the Wednesday series, but with reducing water, the calculations may still have to be amended, so there still could be everything to play for.
Low Water Racing
In case you have missed it we are currently loosing water very rapidly. This is to allow for some major repair work to be undertaken to the West Bank, by the bungalows.
Regardless of the low water it is our intention to continue sailing as much as possible during the work. We will need to use the main ramp and lower boat park. This Sunday please treat it as normal and a decision will be made on the day.
Training will also be taking place, despite it being a Bank Holiday.
Being Social
Don’t forget that our next social event will be a stylish Italian evening sipping Aperol and Prosecco, dress your finest and have a great time with friends.