RC Laser Travellers' Trophy at Ayr Bay Radio Yacht Club

Fourteen RC Laser skippers were fortunate to arrive at the venue to enjoy probably the best sailing day of the year, in Scotland, with the sun shining and a good, but light, wind caressing the pond from the North East.

This in spite of the forecast which had indicated that winds would be VERY light and would back throughout the day to eventually come from the South West at zero mph, gusting 3 mph!

This did not happen, although some quiet spells and contrary winds were experienced throughout the morning, changing direction by 180 degrees more or less within the period selected for the lunch break.

The skippers included three from South of the border. A rig was the order of the day with most selecting the B rig, for a spell, mid morning. Skippers sailing with a weather vane definitely had the advantage when the light airs took over. Nineteen races were held in single fleet racing. Getting off to a good start was of paramount importance from the busy starting line which, generally, displayed the growing skills of the fleet, with comparatively few start line incidents until nearing the end of the day when nerves and tiredness began to take over.

One start, under black flag conditions, was necessary and was maybe a little strange to some. When explained, it certainly had the required effect!

The fight for the honours was down to the three best skippers on the day showing great skills, determination and consistency in the demanding conditions.

Very worthy winners.

Many thanks to all who attended, especially to those who travelled a fair distance to participate.

Many thanks also to the race team:

• Patrick Johnston, Race Officer, who also competed. An onorous duty in the changing weather conditions. Very professionally executed.

• David Smith, Scorer. Exemplary as usual.
• Charles Abbot, Assistant to the scorer and line judge.

Overall Results: