River Hamble Harbour Masters Annual Dinghy Pursuit Race

River Hamble Harbour Master's annual pursuit race © David Lemare

River Hamble Harbour Master's annual pursuit race © David Lemare

The River Hamble Harbour Master's annual pursuit race for dinghies was held in the River on 18 September. Twice postponed this year due to adverse weather, this third attempt was held in light winds and, after some initial sunshine the fleet was subjected to torrential rain and even an electrical storm. Race management was provided by the River Hamble combined Clubs and all proceeds from entry fees were donated to the child bereavement charity – ‘Simon Says'.

This year, for the first time, the Harbour Master, David Evans, joined in the racing in his RS400 – starting well behind the rest of the fleet with more favourable handicaps making this a Harbour Master's pursuit race in every sense.

Dinghy racing in the River can be exciting as the fleet dodge large yachts and gin palaces in the main channel, but all survived the experience and, after an hour and a half of slow progress and almost constant bailing, the finish gun was sounded. Needless to say, the rain stopped, the sun came out and the wind increased, all within minutes of the final gun, but the race was complete and the honours decided.

Winner of the fast group was the Laser of Fernando Gamboa, with Roger Cerrato in his Blaze close behind. The slow fleet was won by Callum Weston and Jake Vintner in a Firefly with Janet Beal in second. Callum and Jake also took the Under 16 Trophy.

Once again, the trophy for the best Club performance went to Warsash Sailing Club. At the prizegiving, Chairman of the Combined Clubs, Mark Platten thanked everyone for competing in some dreadful weather and hoped for better next year. The Harbour Master then presented the prizes, including a year's subscription to Practical Boat Owner which went to Fernando Gamboa for his outstanding performance.