Highcliffe Sailing Club Open Icicle Series - Races 7 & 8

Tacking towards Club during race 7 of the Highcliffe Open Icicle Series © Stephanie McCormick

Highcliffe Open Icicle Series winner Simon Percival © Stephanie McCormick

Sunday 16th February saw Highcliffe Sailing Club host the final event in the Icicle Series. Unbelievably, blue skies, light winds and calm waters greeted the competitors. This was in stark contrast to the previous 24 hours which saw hurricane force winds and high tides wreak havoc in the harbour and along the South coast.

Whilst the boats were setting out in the sunshine towards the start line, a huge clear up operation was in place on the shore, assisted by the army at Avon Beach. Many local boats were damaged in the storm, possibly accounting for the reduced number of entries. In total there were 20 boats from local clubs including Highcliffe, Christchurch, Mudeford and Keyhaven.

A light Westerly provided the race team with the opportunity to once again set the course start directly in front of the clubhouse. Averaging 5 knots at the start of the race, it was clear that the Finns had the advantage, in particular, Simon Percival (Finn, CSC) was staking his claim early on.

Light winds continued, and with almost 15 minutes between the leading Finns and the last Laser, the race team finished the race after 2 laps. Finns took the top places, Simon Percival (635) achieving a 5 second lead over Ray New (80), and Andy Dennison (20) who were well ahead of the pack.

The Wind began to pick up with frequent gusts of 10 knots and also began a steady shift to South South Westerly. Spectators had a great view as all 20 boats headed directly towards the club for the first upwind tack. After the first lap the Finns had increased their lead leaving just half a leg between the leaders and the back of the fleet. John Challenor (Laser) once again determined to catch the Finns and was close on their tails throughout. The Challenor challenge proved successful as he placed third in the corrected results. Sensing overall victory,Simon Percival (Finn) stormed across the finish line with 24 seconds to spare before Ray New (Finn) followed in second place.

As the series concludes, in glorious sunshine, (yes, Spring is out there and coming soon!), Simon Percival is the well deserved overall winner of the Icicle Series, having achieved six 1sts and two 2nd places during the 8 races. Many congratulations to Simon and in second place to Ray New (Finn) and third place John Challenor (Laser).

Percivcal and New during race 7 of the Highcliffe Open Icicle Series - photo © Stephanie McCormick

The next date for your diary is 22nd and 23rd March 2014 when Highcliffe Sailing Club hosts the Laser World and European Standard and Radial Qualifier 3.

Overall Results: