Laser Open at London Corinthian Sailing Club

Lasers at London Corinthian © Penny Evans

Lasers at London Corinthian © Penny Evans

Lasers at London Corinthian © Penny Evans

Following the open at Island Barn on Saturday September 29, 21 sailors competed at London Corinthian Sailing Club in Hammersmith the next day in the only tidal open meeting on the Thames Valley Laser circuit.

The tide got to most of the fleet for the first of three races as they pressed for a good start in a brisk south westerly and there was little surprise when the general recall flag was raised. The second attempt was relatively clear, with only an individual recall for a couple of offenders, the reservoir boys had no problems with the tide carrying up the windward leg, or deciding when to cross the river against the tide to make for the gybe marks. Daniel Francis from Papercourt – winner of last year's LCSC Open – led the first lap, with John Peck, from Silverwing, second. Jim Fifield from Queen Mary was third but eventually overhauled John to finish second. In fourth place was Phil Robin from LCSC.

These four continued to dominate in the subsequent two races, although in the second race local sailor Clive Kitson came second, behind Daniel Francis, forcing John Peck into third and Jim Fifield behind Phil Robin in fifth in what was a quick one-lap dash.

The Queen Mary sailor dominated the third race, though, leading all the way with John Peck second, Phil Robin third and Daniel Francis fourth. With his two bullets Daniel had done enough for a deserved win, with Jim Fifield in second place and John Peck third overall.

The Radials too enjoyed close racing, but again it was a visitor who took the honours. Simon Hamment from Papercourt came first, with LCSC Rear Commodore Dinghies Andre Gareh second and Richard Thomas from Papercourt third.

Overall Results:

Standard Fleet
1. Daniel Francis, Papercourt
2. Jim Fifield, Queen Mary
3. John Peck, Silverwing
4. Phil Robin, London Corinthian
5. Clive Kitson, London Corinthian

Radial Fleet
1. Simon Hamment, Papercourt
2. Andre Gareh, London Corinthian
3. Richard Thomas, Papercourt