GP14 Open at Burwain Sailing Club

A very successful day despite the fluky conditions. The wind was blowing in the worst possible direction unless you like 90 degree wind shifts. The club sailors had made a special effort and had been organised by the Dewhursts, thank you to those members who had lent their boats out for the day. 16 home boats were joined by two visitors making a competitive fleet of 18 boats; this included the current world champion Ian Dobson. Ian had been let down by his usual crew Andrew Tunicliffe; Andrew did have a minor excuse having tied the knot the previous day.

The race officer Catherine Dobson had a difficult job to do and still managed to get the first race away on good time. Innes and Tom took an early lead followed by Gary and Nichola and the young upstart George (12 years old) crewed by his Dad. Ian and Gemma didn't have a good start but still managed to climb to 5th. Innes and Tom held the lead to the finish followed by Gary and Nichola in 2nd and Lee and Laura in 3rd.

The 2nd race was tricky and Catherine had to change the course just before the start. Innes and Tom again took an early lead, however Catherine took the brave decision to change the course in the middle of the race. This lead to some confusion, therefore Ian and Gemma capitalised and took the bullet followed by Lee and Laura leaving Innes and Tom in 3rd.

The final race and it was still all to play for. Another good clean start and again Innes and Tom took an early lead. Catherine must have confused her son Ian and unfortunately he had sailed toward the wrong mark. Gary and Nichol sailed very well to pass Innes and Tom, Ian and Gemma still managed to finish 3rd. George was upsetting the adults by finishing 5th in the final race.

It is also worth mentioning that the Dewhurst family had 5 sailors including Granddad Peter and Grandson Harry. Harry was cheering when they passed his Granddad on the last beat just before the finish.

George was given the price for first Junior helm finshing 7th overall. The first junior was Harry Wilken helmed by Tom Partridge finishing 6th overall despite not using a spinaker.

The first Junior team was Oliver Ralph crewed by Ute Schmitgen.

Ian and Gemma finished 3rd overall. Gary and Nichola were 2nd. Innes and Tom were the overall winners.

Overall Results: