13 elderly dinghies from the ’40s to the ’70s arrived
at Shearwater to be met with strong winds and even stronger gusts.
This was the first Classic and Vintage Racing Dinghy Association
event of 2005.
The
first race on Saturday was a friendly. Six boats entered and the
wind increased just after the start. Several capsizes and retirements
meant that only two boats survived to the end. First place going
to John and Lyn Gardiner in Merlin 507, second place to Sally
and Matt Weale in an Enterprise.
Two
afternoon races followed a similar story, Merlin 6, an early National
12 and a solo not venturing out. Five finishers were lead by Rupert
Whelan in his firefly with Rob crewing. At the end of a hard day
competitors were treated to wonderful meal in the clubhouse and
a very friendly 'social', a great end to the day.
The
wind eased just a little on Sunday and the gusts weren't quite
as strong but still hard sailing throughout the day, there were
more capsizes, and some minor gear failure. Rupert maintained
his lead in each race. Roger had decided not to sail his Hornet,
(complete with sliding seat) but sailed his GP to second place
in each but the third race. Third place was closely fought and
swapped between Colin Singer's Enterprise, John Gardiner's Graduate
or Steve Winter's Firefly during the weekend. With three out of
four to count it was an exhilarating two days.
