West Lancashire Yacht Club RC Laser Winter Series - Round 3

The popular West Lancs Yacht Club Open Winter series is now underway. Up to 20 RC Lasers and 10 DragonForce battle it out on Southport's lovely Marine Lake every two weeks, however the forecast of bitterly cold weather reduced the turnout somewhat on this occasion.

With the North/Westerly breeze an extra bit of thought was needed with course layout. As the wind would be passing either side of the clubhouse, an unusual course was set with 4 marks to port and 1 to starboard. Adding to the difficulties were steadily rising winds so that most skippers would use all of their sail selection throughout the day.

Shaun Holbeche took the early lead, followed by a close battle between John Sharman, Skip Reaser and Tony Wilson for second place. By lunchtime Tony and Skip were level on points, while John had unfortunately used the 2 discards with a rudder and winch issue.

After a cottage pie lunch and a cuppa, the battle continued and so did the penalty turns. In a surprise tactic, Shaun stepped into the freezing water up to his waist, but before anyone had noticed, he carried on his second lap to win that race (brrrrrr-illiant transmitter control).

With a totally clean sheet and discarding 2 firsts, Shaun won the day proving once again that he is the man to beat. Second place eventually went to Tony and John had to settle for third.

The DragonForce skippers as usual sailed their own race. Sharing the venue, the organisation and the catering makes for a more enjoyable day and benefits everyone During the races, each class share the same finish and much of the same course. Despite the one minute delayed start it is usual for some of the lasers to be caught and passed by the leading Dragons. As both classes are one design classes, it is the skill of the skippers which decides the result, John Tushingham once again coming out on top on this occasion.