Racing Sunday 16th July

Published 01:00 on 17 Jul 2023

Photos by Chris Wade

The south westerly gales from the day before had somewhat abated, but the turnouts were lower than usual. The figure of eight course was set in sight of the club. The wind provided lots of planing fun for the participants, and for the spectators.

The Blue series started at 1030, but very unusually there were no Merlins on the line. Three Lasers went out all under 20 and showed the way. Matt Valentine and Matty Key were first and second respectively. Lyra finished but had had enough. Joe McLaughlin went out in his Solo and finished a few seconds behind Matt Valentine.

Four Merlins started in their White race no capsizes. There were two races going on Ken Duffell and Matt Valentine in Avenger (Matt had emigrated from his Laser to crew his grandad), and John and Zoe Adams in Saltarello (John just returned from sailing at Salcombe). These two were sometimes close, sometimes not so close. The Adams emerged in front of the Avenger team.

Andy and Tom Harris in Crescendo quickly established a lead, but were often closely challenged by Charlie Morgan and Arun in Andromeda.

Matty Key was the sole Laser out and had a great time in the gusts.

Charles Fox and Robert Blakebrough sailed a heavily reefed National 18 Genevieve round the course in both Blue and White races.

Thanks to OOD David Baker assisted by Jim Green in the box. The two patrol boats were run Barbara Adams and Jonathan Key in one and extra volunteers Chris Wade and Alastair Banks in the other.

There were a lot of members down to enjoy the sunshine, watch the racing, have a drink at the bar and a sandwich.

Thanks to David Mae and Sabina for the sandwiches and drinks from the bar.

Last updated 11:46 on 27 May 2025