Well done to everyone who braved the almost zero wind conditions to take part in the third Junior Race (combined with the Ladies Race) last Saturday.
Vanessa realised what the conditions were like and stayed very close to the start boat during the countdown and in consequence lead the combined Junior and Ladies fleet off the line. Light wind techniques were very much in evidence ( boats heeled over, helms sat well forward and down to leeward and no sudden movements). Hannah and Ben kept swapping places throughout the race as one got the wind and the other didn’t, while Phil Kitchen sailing with his young son (sorry didn’t get his name !) followed on. On the tricky beat between 3 & 4 (tricky ‘cause there was definitely very little wind around there) Vanessa got overtaken by Gail and Jo racing for the Ladies Trophy. In view of the light winds and the fact that it had taken the leaders 30 mins to complete the first lap the OOD was kind and he shorten the course as they came through. Gail lead across the line but Jo in the Mirror was close enough to take the (Ladies) race on handicap. Vanessa was next as 1st Junior and third Lady, whilst Hannah and Ben continued battling with Hannah coming second and Ben third.
In controversial circumstances Jo Beard retired from the Ladies Race as her crew Denis (a man !) at one point touched the helm to ensure they avoided another boat and the OOD had threatened before the race to disqualify any Lady who how had any male help in the race. The view from the gathered spectators was that the OOD was definitely a meanie !!!!
This Sunday (10th July) at 2.30 pm it is next Junior Race of the series, held within the normal Club racing. I believe the two current front runners may not be able to get down to race so it could be an ideal time for the rest of you to win a race !
Hopefully see lots of you out on the water on Sunday.
Neil
Hon Sailing Coach
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