Sail Chat 23rd July 2023

Sparkling and frisky conditions welcomed us with 9 to 15 mph south westerly, with the occasional gust of more. Hywell and Tim Harms were officiating, Millie and Jane (Freshers) were time keeping, along with Gryf! As one comes to expect Hywell placed the windward mark in an unconventional area in the Middlesex channel off Thorneycrofts Island. Only two takers James Bay, Comet and David Solo. Thrilling downwind runs were seen by the watchers. The Hon Sailing Secretary requested a mark move due to rounding space at mark mentioned above and this was complied with. He led the whole race, carefully wearing round the gybe mark until the last turning, then he went for it! Ruefully to splash in and allow James to recover, a whole leg and just win. In the afternoon class racing there was a good showing from the Merlin class, fresh from windy endeavours in Salcombe. Richard with Philip, John Heath with Nicola, John Bell with Sue and Andrew with Hannah. Richard shot away at the start, showing the mettle of a Salcombe fleet winner, never to be headed. Just one Enterprise again, this time with Chris and Ra, revelling in the strong breeze. Plenty of Handicappers, James Bay, James Peel with Claude and Ian all in Comets along with David who stayed upright for the whole race to win. Tight race in the GP class with Derek and George, John with Paul and Kevin with Maddie, held up rather by ingress! Tea by Jane and Susie with cakes also from Ian and Chris Bell. Bar by Mack in gay shirt. Many visitors for HSC Tea Shop causing shortages. More next week. Phill

Last updated 4:14pm on 13 May 2024