Trowlock Trophy Open Handicap Pursuit 12th October 2025

The day dawned lovely and sunny, but the wind seemed to have disappeared overnight. Nevertheless fourteen boats took to the water to compete in the annual Trowlock Trophy Pursuit Race. We were delighted to welcome visitors from Lensbury SC and Minima YC three Enterprises and one ILCA7/Laser.

Race Officer Garrie Mallen set a starboard hand loop, starting downstream against the slight wind with the upstream mark just short of the Sea Cadets.

The Enterprises set off first, followed by the ILCAs, then the Merlins plus one N18, and finally the second National 18. There was some difficulty rounding the windward mark to begin with, but gradually the wind filled in, eight boats doing three rounds and the others two. The ILCAs were in the lead, swapping places, until Richard Harris and Jason Stokes in Merlin Passing Cloud worked their usual magic to come first.

Thanks to Garrie Mallen, Robert Blakebrough, in the box, Griff Tanner and Phill McGowan in the launch. Carolyne Vines took the entries, then filled in the box when Robert went sailing.

Lunch of sandwiches and baked potatoes with various fillings and drinks from the bar were enjoyed by competitors and spectators alike. Thanks to Jean-Michel and the staff for keeping us fed and watered.

Race report by Carolyne Vines.

Photo: Griff Tanner

The Prizegiving was held in the clubhouse afterwards.

1^st Merlin Passing Cloud Richard Harris and Jason Stokes

2^nd ILCA7 Graffitti Alastair Banks

3^rd ILCA7 Endless Ilker Sener

4^th ILCA7 Inxcisive Lyra Wade

1st Merlin Richard Harris and Jason Stokes

2nd ILCA7 Alastair Banks

3rd ILCA7 Ilker Sener

4th ILCA7 Lyra Wade