It was great to get back on the water again at ‘sunny’ Gorleston, although the sunny forecast was perhaps a little optimistic. Thankfully the water wasn’t as cold as everyone was expecting !
Eight boats took to the water, three RS400’s and a mixture of five different single hander classes.
Conditions were good with a steady F3 from the SE which eased to a F2-3 for the final race and there was no doubting we were back on the lumpy stuff. The race team set a good sized Windward – Leeward course and with the ebbing tide still flowing it meant a good long beat.
Race one
David (Solution) has an early exit when his kicker broke shortly after the start. Richard & Rosie (400) soon found their form and led by over three minutes after the first lap. Phil & Lorna (400) led the chasing pack with Dave (Vareo) just ahead of Keith (Laser). After lap two Richard & Rosie had managed to open the gap to nearly six minutes and easily held their handicap. Keith sailed a good windward leg overtaking Dave to take second on corrected time.
Race two
The three 400’s soon led the fleet with R&R opening up a small lead on the others. Adam & Jordan and Phil & Lorna had a close race until the third lap with the former pulling away to cross the line second. Meanwhile, back in the single hander fleet, Dave had an early retirement when one of his shrouds became unclipped. Keith led the remaining boats with Darell (Contender) and Phil (Harrier) enjoying a close battle with the two approaching the line together seemingly in conversation and crossing the line together. R&R winning on handicap with Keith just beating Adam & Jordan.
Race three
By the start of the final race the wind had eased a little and the tide was almost slack. Adam & Jordan nailed the start and led for a short while. However, R&R managed to take the lead before the windward mark and proceeded to open up a small lead at the finish. After lap one Dave led the single handers however, Darell had a great windward leg on lap two overtaking Dave.
R&R took line honours again and their third race win with Adam & Jordan just beating Dave on corrected. time.
Many thanks to the race team for a great if not tiring days sailing. Once back ashore it was time for the customary Chef Brown’s pie. The weather was still good enough to enjoy it outside on the prom…. well just warm enough !
Results are on the club site http://www.gygsc.org.uk/Results/2023/2023Spring.htm
Pictures are on Flick https://www.flickr.com/photos/gygsc/albums
