Racing Sunday 28th January

Published 16:43 on 5 Feb 2024

Report Marcus Chavasse

The sun came out, the winds were light (good for getting back in the groove after the previous week's weather) and provided nearly enough forward movement to make progress against the stream.

Race officer Chris Pollard set a straightforward up and down course. Straightforward that is, apart from the need to sail out and round the windward mark.

In the Blue Enterprise race, Robin Broomfield and Paul Bloomfield came out ahead of Peter Bide and Charley Harvey. In the Lasers, Matt Valentine was first, Alexey Anatskiy second. Rob Hatley and Lou were back on the water in their Merlin after a long break and Charles Fox and Robert Blakeborough forged round the N18 course.

In the white races conditions were a bit tricky. Many went backwards at the start leaving the scorers wondering whether boats would be near enough to the start line to benefit from the scoring advantage in the Series that is given to a boat that "came to the starting area but did not start". Eventually a few boats made it to the top mark and were seen whizzing downstream. Early roundings paid big dividends as the fleets spread out. Throughout the race, hugging the Surrey bank was the order of the day.

For those still in contention, the wind increased nicely as the leading Merlins came ashore.

Richard Harris crewed by Emma McDonald took first Merlin place followed by John and Zoe Adams. Chris Rowsell crewed by Teresa Burton gained 1st in the Enterprises followed by Alex Cane and Diane Kieghley. Ilker Sener beat Alexey Anatskiy in the Lasers.

Many thanks to the Race and Patrol Boat teams consisting of Chris Pollard, Caroline Stilwell, Joe McLaughlin, Johannes Wagner and John Kemp.

The clubhouse was buzzing nicely after the races. Sailors and spectators alike enjoying drinks hot and cold, a mug of soup and a sandwich. Thanks to the staff running the bar and kitchen.

Last updated 22:17 on 27 April 2025