GP14 Open at Chase Sailing Club

On the 17th March, Chase Sailing Club held its first GP14 Open since 2009, as due to Dam repairs no events had been possible. The reservoir is now full, and Chase is welcoming new and past members to the Club with the membership year starting on 1st April.

The GP event was generously sponsored by Gul, thanks to Dave Harvey from Gul for his support.

Although the weather forecast was not good it was great to welcome 22 visitors to join the 4 home boats for a fleet of 26. Special mention must go to South Staffs. Sailing Club for a fantastic effort, turning out 15 boats.

PRO Paul Lester got the fleet away on time for Race 1. Reigning Chase Open holder Mike Senior, crewed by wife Liz showed his intentions with a win, followed home by Chris White and Ed Bradburn, Richard Instone crewed by Jim Toothill kept the Old Guard in with a shout coming third. Mark Fleming and Michelle Evans were fourth leading boat in the Silver Fleet.

Hot lunch was laid on by Chase SWAGS (Sailors Wives And Girlfriends) much appreciated after the freezing temperatures out on the water.

The wind had swung for Race 2 allowing for a longer beat, but it was business as usual for Mike and Liz with a second bullet, Richard and Jim showed consistent form with a second, third went to Dave Young crewed by wife Seonaid. Showing their credentials in fourth were current Youth Champions Sam Watson and Andy Hunter.

The final race started under the Black Flag, after a General Recall, Mike and Liz were not resting on their laurels and were out again competing, maybe they knew there was a special prize awaiting. They duly went on for a third victory, Chris and Ed secured second to guarantee their second overall, Sam and Andy had a well deserved third place. The Bronze Fleet was wrapped up by Megan Hicklin and Hayley Ramadhar with a superb fifth place.

After the presentation of trophies for the 2012 Midland Bell, prize giving got underway with Mike and Liz picking up the Chase Plate and also the Richard Estaugh Memorial Trophy for winner of Race 3. Fleet winners received Gift Vouchers from sponsors Gul.

A special prize was awarded to the oldest combined crew, with a total of 143 years between them John Froggatt and Roger Round received a pair of Gul mugs for their Cocoa.

Overall Results:

1st Mike Senior and Liz Senior (South Staffs)
2nd Chris White and Ed Bradburn (South Staffs)
3rd Richard Instone and Jim Toothill (Blithfield)
4th Sam Watson and Andy Hunter (South Staffs)

Silver Fleet Winners, Mark Fleming and Michelle Evans (South Staffs)
Bronze Fleet Winners, Megan Hicklin and Hayley Ramadhar (South Staffs)