This week saw the Spring Series come to an end and the new one begin with an Open Regatta. Please find below the Spring Series Summary Booklet and the Racing Report for the event.
Race Report for Whit Regatta
A lively south-westerly brought 24 dinghies to Rollesby Broad for the club’s Open Regatta this Sunday the 7th of June. After four consecutive weeks of light airs, sailors relished a very different test. The fresh breeze brought long, exhilarating downwind legs, close tactical racing and plenty of spray sparkling in the sunshine as the boats charged across the Broad.
Race 1 saw David Houghton crewed by John Simmonds (Wayfarer) break away early and make the most of clear air to build a useful advantage. For much of the race they looked set for victory, but as the breeze strengthened and edged south, the final downwind legs began to favour the chasing pack. Mike McNamara crewed by Roger Watson (Wayfarer) seized the opportunity
and began to close in, setting up a thrilling duel to the line. McNamara snatched line honours by half a boat length, but on corrected-time both Wayfarers were denied by Chris Barker (ILCA 6) who stayed close enough to take the handicap win by seven seconds.
By Race 2 the wind had settled into a consistent breeze, and the multi-sail boats broke clear, utilising their spinnakers to make gains downwind. Howard Astley-Jones (RSVareo) established a good lead and all expected an easy win until an unfortunate capsize with the kite up on the final leg handed victory to Houghton instead. Barker was able to keep the faster boats within range to
secure second on handicap, with Ellie Edwards (Splash) claiming third on corrected-time.
With the overall standings still open, the afternoon race remained crucial. After lunch and with the wind building, around half the fleet returned to the water for Race 3. Houghton again escaped at the front and looked on course for the regatta win, only for Barker to begin reeling him in over the final two laps. Although Houghton was first home on the water, the strong gusts suited the ILCA 6, allowing Barker to take the corrected-time win and the trophy. Edwards was close behind in second, with Houghton third.
Slideshow of the top 5 overall competitors in action! Phots taken by Glenn Barker, with the full album available on Flickr.
Overall Results:
- Chris Barker (ILCA 6) 2pts.
- David Houghton & John Simmonds (Wayfarer) 4pts.
- Ellie Edwards (Splash) 5pts.
- Mike McNamara & Roger Watson (Wayfarer) 7pts.
- Bob Hawkins (Solo) 8pts.
Report By – Ellie Edwards
