GP14 Northern Bell Series at Hollingworth Lake Sailing Club

This Northern Bell event was closely contested with 14 entrants, the Club having welcomed 5 visitors from as far as the West Midlands. The forecast was not good with rain and strong winds likely. On arrival, some wondered where the wind was, though looking downwind gives a different perspective.

Setting out for the first race reminded everyone that shifts and stronger gusts would come underneath the gathering dark clouds. The westerly wind made for good beats and long runs. Greg Thomas and Sarah Allen were clear away and beyond challenge in the first race, while local sailors, Martin Brennan and Alastair Knott kept control of second place, ahead of challenging Gary Dewhurst and Thomas Bennett. Behind there was much place changing going on, though 4 boats opted to retire.

After a decent lunch break to give time to recover, two races were sailed back to back. The wind having strengthened during the first race, appeared to have eased. 2 boats meanwhile opted not to venture out. With another clean start, Martin Brennan and Alistair Knott made no mistake to lead at the first mark and hold that place. Behind there was again much place changing with Peter Jacques and Pete Tate fighting the challenge of Gary Dewhurst and Greg Thomas. Conditions became very blustery with the odd capsize and retirements.

While Martin Brennan had the best results so far, there were other potential winners. The fleet was reduced to 9 boats racing. The leading 4 boats changed places often during the final race and no lead was safe. In the end, it was Gary Dewhurst who took the win ahead of Peter Jacques and Greg Thomas. Fourth place was enough to give the event win to Martin Brennan ahead of the three other contenders who all finished closely on 4 points.

Craftinsure kindly added to the prize table.

Overall Results: