6th GW Smith Trophy race, 10th August 2023

Published 01:00 on 13 Aug 2023

Report by John Adams

A small but select group of 7 boats competed in the 6th GW Smith race on 10th August, 5 Merlins, Henry Medcalf and Joey Sparks in a Firefly and current leader of the series, Matt P-J in his N18 crewed on the evening by Brian Corking. The wind was kind, a reasonable strength which lasted fairly well the whole evening and coming from north to northwest, gave us a good beat upstream and run downstream. OOD Mike Adams set a dog leg course to cater for the westerly component. As an added bonus, the sun shone as well.

Tim Medcalf crewed by Barney Godfrey in their Merlin led from the start pursued by David Baker and Carolyne Vines, also in a merlin. Matt P-J and Brian Corking in the big red N18 were in hot pursuit and by the 3rd lap, they had taken over as leaders, stretching the lead as the race went on and eventually lapping all but Tim and David who finished 2nd and 3rd respectively.

Matt and Brian's lead was sufficient for them to finish 1st on handicap as well, with Henry and Joey in the Firefly sailing well to finish 2nd ahead of the Merlins.

Overall Matt P-J is leading, counting 4 firsts, discarding a second. Theoretically his score could be matched if Andy Harris, who is also counting a 1st, sails and wins the remaining 3 races. If that happens, we will be delving into the depths of Appendix A of the RYA's scoring guidance to break the tie. David Baker is 2nd in his Merlin with Henry Medcalf in the Firefly gradually climbing up the rankings to 3rd.

Mike Adams was OOD, aided by Jenny Adams, with Jim Hamilton and Brian Corking on the Patrol Boat, although Mike stood by on the Patrol boat as well to allow Brian to crew for Matt P-J.

Jean-Michel provided an excellent supper of fish pie with broccoli and a salad of avocado green beans and tomato, rounded off with lemon tart. He was helped by Alfie and Charlotte in the kitchen and bar.

While we are reaching the end of the series, there are still 3 races to sail and a number of competitors who could still qualify and improve their standings in the series. So a good incentive to come and enjoy the late summer evenings as a competitor or spectator followed by an excellent supper and good company.

Last updated 22:17 on 27 April 2025