(Warsash, England)- To say there was a distinct turnabout in conditions
for the second spring series race would be an understatement for the
intrepid teams that gathered together to go sailing on the capricious
Solent. From the “shorts & shades” balmy weather of a week ago,
“wellies, woollies & slickers” were the chosen armour on a chilly
weekend that brought a mixture of sunshine and heavy rain or hail
showers and a strong breeze. Inevitably this took its toll on boats,
equipment and sailors but the race officers set tight challenging
courses keeping all the crews busy – and warm. To the course setters’
delight, this week the wind remained constant allowing true beats and
runs for all classes throughout the morning.Given a forecast north-westerly of 13-20 kts with gusts to 26 kts and just two hours after low water at the starts, the Black Group committee boat took up station at North Ryde Middle buoy. IRC1 and 2 were given a 16 mile course with 11 marks, alternating long and short legs. Although many starts were close, with jostling on the line, they were all clear. Tidal tactics were important crossing the main channel between Peel Bank and South Ryde Middle. The sun appeared from time to time but so did the lively squalls accompanied by rain and hail.
In IRC 1 class, after nearly three hours’ racing, the J/111 J-DREAM sailed by David and Kirsty Apthorp finished 26 seconds ahead of sistership JITTERBUG sailed by Cornel Riklin. Notably, this tight finish was produced after JITTERBUG had paused to stand by an MOB situation where JITTERBUG, quite rightly, requested redress from the RC/ Protest committee. With seven J/111s vying for position, the standings are getting interesting already. JITTERBUG is leading the class with a 1-2 for 3 pts and J-DREAM has now jumped into second position with a 4-1 for 5 pts. The biggest gainer week over week was Will Naylor’s crew on BRITISH SOLDIER, taking a 7-4 for 11 pts.
After a tiring but exhilarating morning competitors were pleased to swap
stories in the Warsash Sailing Club bar later where Jonathan Broad from
Brooks Macdonald presented champagne to the weekly class winners. The
Brooks Macdonald Warsash Spring Series returns on 30th March with a
reminder for competitors that British Summer Time starts that day too.
Thanks for contribution from Louay Habib. For more Brooks Macdonald Warsash Spring Series sailing information
