Perhaps a mix of wedding celebration hangovers and the forecast F4 gusting F6 put off many of the usual CVRDA sailors. However, they missed an excellent event, sunshine and some challenging sailing on a beautiful stretch of water.
The first of the three races got away cleanly with Alan Price (travelled from Portsmouth) getting a good start in his OK. The Jollyboat (J9) was struggling in the breeze a little having not been on the water since the start of the year. The helm must have been a little confused by the race officer at the briefing as he went to the wrong first mark, waved to the others on the reach, and switched directions next time. The OK was first, Merlin 3394 second and J9 third.
Races two and three were held after lunch, still in glorious sunshine, with the breeze picking up to a F5 gusting the top end F6 maybe a little more once or twice as a large proportion of the other boats out sailing were knocked flat. Race 2 was lead, following an excellent start, by Merlin 3394 with the OK getting second. Race 3 saw the Jollyboat finally get some form, starting well but getting beaten by the OK with the Merlin capsizing in a very strong gust. A special mention to Firefly 3319 which capsized in every race – with helm and crew smiling every time.
The prizes were very attractive engraved glass and also supported by Kevin Butler Rigging who supplied generous vouchers for first to third. An excellent day had by all.
Overall Results:
1st OK 1963, Alan Price
2nd Merlin Rocket 3394, Kim & Megan Morley
3rd Jollyboat 9, Trevor & William Chanter