Another chilly day on the water for the race team, although we did have some sunny periods and the wind was stronger than the light winds forecast making for a good days sailing, plus it kept dry! Twelve boats ventured out with the predominant trend towards singlehanders continuing. The racing was close all day with a different winner in each race.
The wind did it’s now customary big shift as we started race one, shifting from the North to NE. This made for a rather one sided beat. Phil led the fleet to the windward mark in his RS700. However, as he approached the wind faded and shifted back for a short while allowing Dave and John to nip pass in their RS400, closely followed by Richard Fryer in his RS300 and Nick in his Phantom. With the race team shortening the race it was a quick reach to the finish line. Eight seconds separated the top three with the order reversed on corrected time and Nick claiming top spot just ahead of Richard.
Once the race team moved the windward mark race two got underway. Phil made big gains on the long beats into the tide and opened up a big lead, eventually lapping most of the fleet. Keith (Laser) and David (Solution) had a race long tussle with Keith leading for the first two laps but David overtaking on the final lap but unable to open the gap enough to save his handicap. Phil claimed the win with Dave & John second
Lining up for Race 3
Richard & Ed (RS400) nailed the start in race three taking an early lead although Phil soon powered pass to sail another lonely race out front. Behind a three way battle between two RS400’s and Curtis in his RS700. Dave & John eventually opening up a gap and Team Brown finishing just ahead of Curtis. Behind them, Steve (D-One), Contender Phil, Richard and Nick were batting for position…. but Steve was only short distance behind in his Europe. Contender Phil managed to cross the line ahead of the group but Steve earned the win on corrected time just pipping Phil.
Thanks to the race team for a great days sailing even if it was a bit chilly !
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