Lark open meeting at Hayling Island Sailing Club

Hayling Island SC hosted the Larks for a three-race, one-day, open meeting on Sunday 18th October, following the Masters Championship at the same venue on the day before. The result came down to arguably the closest ever final finish at a Lark open meeting, with the result being determined by the smallest of margins, as the top two boats crossed the finish line in the final race with barely a painter's width between them.

The race officer set three excellent courses just outside of Chichester Harbour. A short chop and unsteady force 2-3 gave the teams plenty to think about.

The first race was taken by Steve Cumley and Eluned Jones, but only after a 4 way battle including Nigel Hufton/Adam Owens, Charlie Roome/Sam Tozer and Nigel Scott/Will Kennedy, all of which led the race for a brief period.

In the second race Hufton/Owens escaped at the start, and with good speed they were never really challenged, setting up a final race showdown with Cumley/Stewart.

These two led off a port biased start line and exchanged the lead four times during the race. Hufton/Owens twice overtaking up the beat, and Cumley Stewart twice regaining the lead down wind.

In the end, the result was determined on the final broad reach. Hufton/Owens went low, Cumley and Stewart coming from behind went high, soaking down to the finish line at the very end. The two boats seemingly crossed the line in unison. But with all concerned holding their breath, it was determined that the race and open had gone to Cumley and Stewart by the finest of margins.

Our thanks go to Hayling Island Sailing Club for hosting the Larks for the weekend.

The final round of the 2015 Helly Hansen Lark class 'Great 8' takes place 24-25 October at Royal Plymouth Corinthian Yacht Club.

Overall Results: