It was another pleasant sunny day at Gorleston for the twelve crews who took part in the days racing. A light wind from the SE still had a slight chill to it with many sailors still opting for their drysuits rather than a wetsuit.
Eight different classes with the RS400’s and Solutions both with three boats in the mix. Phil had swapped his trusty Contender for his shiny new Zenith which was probably more suited to the light conditions
After a rather leisurely start to procedures, race one got underway. This week saw a triangular course rather than the usual W/L. HW was scheduled for midday so there was still a noticeable ebb tide flowing. Richard and Rosie, aka Team Custard were quick off the mark and soon had a commanding lead. Many stayed inshore avoiding the full tide but for those who ventured out there was, at times more wind, so judging the best route up the beat was tricky.
Ed, sailing his Spitfire managed to overhaul Team Custard on the final lap to cross the line first. These two were a long way ahead of the rest of the fleet with Dave& John, recovering from a poor start to lead the rest just ahead of Solution Paul. On corrected time Team Custard won by a few seconds from Solution Paul.
Race two and less tide saw many opt offshore in better pressure. Team Custard took an early lead which they held to the finish, Dave & John chased them all race but never closed the gap after the first beat. Just behind Phil & Lorna were holding off a challenge from Aero Phil and just behind them a three way battle between the Solutions of Paul and Richard and Zenith Phil, with Phil ahead at the finish but not far enough to hold his handicap. On corrected time it was a RS400 1, 2, with Aero Phil third.
Race three and by now very little tide. Team Custard were having a good day nailing the start and soon leading the pack. Dave & John once again spent the race chasing them but on the final lap lost ground. Behind a close battle behind the Aero, Zenith and Solutons with Aero Phil pulling clear and Richard overtaking Paul on the final lap. Team Custard enjoyed a clean sweep with another win, Solution Richard second just four seconds ahead of Aero Phil.
Thanks to the race team for a pleasant days sailing and for trying a different course. Trevor did a sterling job ferrying RIB’s and dinghies across the beach, which was especially helpful as the sand was quite soft after the bulldozers recently being busy moving the sand around.
Full results http://www.gygsc.org.uk/Results/2026/2026Spring.htm
More pictures on the club Flickr site – https://www.flickr.com/photos/gygsc/albums/with/72177720333188767