Racing, Sunday 13th August

Published 01:00 on 14 Aug 2023

Words: Marcus Chavasse

Photos: Chris Wade

The racing this Sunday was described by one of the competitors as "hefty". I am not sure quite what this refers to the size of breakfast required, the weight of a waterlogged boat or the wind conditions. The wind was Southerly, moderately strong at times. Race Officer Stewart Colley decided to send the fleet above the island for both Blue and White races.

In the tricky bit to get past the island the wind kept "twiddling" adding to frustration for some.

All the Merlins remained upright although one helm did spend some time exploring the trees. In the Blue Race, Peter and Richard Mason were first, but in the White Race Richard Harris came home first crewed by Emma McDonald. The Charlie Morgan/ Tim Gin pairing was next with the Masons in third.

In the Lasers, Alastair Banks finished first in both races demonstrating the benefits of retaining the rudder for the full length of the race. Jim Hamilton was runner-up in the first race and Brendan Hills in the second.

Charles Fox and Ron Williamson in the National 18, and Peter Bide and Charlie Harvey in an Enterprise sailed around on their own.

Thank you to Stewart Colley and Sally and Adrian Warwick-Haller in the box and Anne Hutchins, Jennifer Falcon Hall, Chris Wade and Carolyne Vines in the Patrol Boats.

The club was crowded for lunch as the competitors were joined by spectators. Thanks to Nicky Johnson, Jack, and Maddie for keeping everyone fed and watered.

Last updated 22:17 on 27 April 2025