The Sunday Summer series got underway with a warm F2-3 breeze. However, being westerly and therefore offshore it proved to be both shifty and patchy and provided a challenging days sailing for everyone.
In race one three boats pulled ahead after lap one, led by Phil in his RS700. Just behind him were the RS400’s of Richard & Rosie and Dave & John, who began what was to be a day long tussle, jostling for position. At the finish these three had pulled far enough ahead of the others by some margin to take the top three spots, although the 400’s claimed the top two places. Further back, David (Solution) and Ed, sailing Steve’s Europe#2, were enjoying a close battle for position with just one second between them at the line.
Race two saw a similar pattern although the top three boats were only just ahead after lap one. Steve, sailing his Europe#1 had put in a good first beat and was not too far behind after the first lap. Phil (RS700) proceeded to pull away from the fleet and managed to lap some by the finish. However, Steve had clearly found his mojo, winning by several minutes on corrected time. The RS400’s of Richard & Rosie and Dave & John enjoyed another close race, with positions changing several times and only three seconds between them at the line.
By now the wind was varying from F1 and a F3, so trying to spot and keep in the breeze was crucial. The three RS400’s led the fleet, with the leading two changing positions on just about every leg. Leading the chasing pack was Phil, sailing his Contender with Steve not too far behind. After three laps the leading two 400’s had opened up a good lead and were rewarded with an extra lap. On corrected time Steve was just ahead on Dave & John with Richard & Rosie third
Many thanks to the race team, a tricky course setting day but managing to provide a great day on the water for all, and in the water for one!
Once ashore we enjoyed our customary pie and beer, Chef Brown’s deputies having managed to follow his instructions and succeeding in not burning the pies!
Results and pictures in the usual places.
Full results – http://www.gygsc.org.uk/Results/2022/2022Summer.htm
Pictures – GYGSC’s albums | Flickr