Gul RS500 Grand Prix at Stone Sailing Club

Traditionally RS500 opens bring with them lots of wind, and this weekend at Stone Sailing Club was no exception. After lots of deliberation, racing on Saturday was abandoned with four races scheduled for the following day. The breeze didn't disappoint, and racing went ahead on time. The RS500s were first off the start line and up to the windward mark, racing on the same course as the 505s who were sharing the event.

Emma Taylor and Pete Hutchings rounded first, followed closely by John Symonds and David Houghton, and then Peter Curtis sailing with his son James. Due to the strong winds and a number of capsizes the fleet became quite spread out, and the first bullet was taken by Emma and Pete, followed by Peter and James, with third going to David and John.

The second and third races both went off with clean starts and it was clear Peter and James had found their groove. The strong winds continued to prove a challenge, but all boats battled around the course to complete both races. The second race saw Peter and James take their first bullet, with Emma and Pete in second, and David and John in third. The third race was again dominated by Peter and James who stormed into the lead, showing strength in very tough conditions. David and John took second, and Allan and Linda Fraser sailed a fast race to finish third.

The final race certainly split the men from the boys (and girls)! The wind speeds got up, and the demanding conditions started to take their toll. After finishing the final race in first position, Peter and James chose to complete a victory lap, despite a shortened course – four races not enough guys!? David and John chose to join them in this lap, whilst third placed William Slater and Kevin Murphy led the rest of the fleet in for a well earned drink and collapse!

Another lively RS500 event, but one that has certainly prepared the Brits for Garda in three weeks time. As I wave my boat off on its journey to Italy, I would like to say a big thank you for all who visited Stone Sailing Club this weekend. Thanks also to the Race Officer Wendy and commodore Neil for putting on such a good event. We hope the RS500s come back in the future, we enjoyed having you. See you in Garda!

Overall Results: