Summer Series Act 5 – Wind and waves!

It was a rather overcast day at Gorleston for Act 5 of the Summer series. However, with a F3-4 Northerly wind and the tide assisting the upwind legs it made for some great downwind legs.
In race one Will & Seb (29ER) led from the start putting in a great first lap to lead by over two minutes. Behind the RS400’s of Richard & Carol and Dave & John were having a close battle with Richard & Carol just ahead at the windward mark. It was in at the deep end for Steve who was persuaded to helm Keith’s RS500 for a first time experience of asymmetric sailing. They were going well upwind but downwind was to prove more difficult. Unfortunately a problem with the jib sheets cut short their sailing.

Steve & Keith enjoying a blast
Steve & Keith enjoying a blast

With the wind against tide the sea was becoming ‘lumpy’ but did provide some great surfing on the downwind legs. With the wind also increasing there was also a few capsizes! Will & Seb maintained their lead crossing the line well ahead to win on corrected time. The battle of the 400’s continued throughout the race with Dave & John just beating Richard & Carol for second.

Hiking hard
Hiking hard

With the increased sea state and wind there was a reduced number of starters for race two. Will & Seb once again led after lap one although not so far behind were Sam & Chris (29ER) closely followed by Dave & John and Phil (700). Despite some ‘dodgy’ gybes there was only one capsize ‘during’ the race.

Will & Seb lead the fleet

Will & Seb consolidated their lead crossing the line over three minutes ahead and winning on corrected time. Dave & John and Phil crossed the line together and on attempting to drop their spinnakers capsized together. Well, if you are going to capsize that’s the time to do it.
Many thanks to the race team for great but testing days sailing and for being there when we needed you !
Good luck to Sam & Chris who are attending the NSSA Championship at Weymouth later this month and to Will & Seb who are attending the 29ER Europeans at Garda in August.

Full results here…