GJW Direct Lark National Championship at Lyme Regis Sailing Club - Day 3

Day 3 of the GJW Direct Lark National Championships dawned with bright blue skies and a steady 15-20kts blowing from the South West. It must have been lighter than day two, as Chris and Cathy Fish headed out under full canvas.

Gate starts were the order of the day, with James Stewart/Jane Kearney getting the fleet underway in Race 4, as pathfinder. Jane's better half; Ross Kearney along with crew Oliver Goodhead sailing 2501 were out of the gate late, but first to the windward mark. They held off the fleet for the re-mainder of the race with Charlie Roome/Eddie coming in second, closely followed by James and Jane.

Race 5 had a similar narrative to Race 4, but with a slight switch in leading characters. This time Nigel Hufton/Matt Wood were pathfinder but rolled in, in 2nd place behind James/Jane. Chris Whitehouse/Simon Haighton fought hard to hold on to third.

Race 6, was a couple of knots breezier with the sunny conditions providing thermal reinforcement to the gradient wind. Chris Holliman/ Kate Hutchins were the pathfinder for the revised sausage/triangle course. The fleet split down the first run, with Alan Krailing/Ed Harris spotting the early gybe paid dividends. Alan and Ed held on to their lead to take the race win. Behind them, Steve Hall/Holly Hewat worked their way up to second with Holliman/Hutchins holding on for third.

At the end of the second day of racing, Stuart Hydon/Rachael Rhodes are still leading the championships with a 3 point margin over Chris/Simon in second, who in turn have single point advantage over Alan/Ed in in third.

With such tight points, it is all to play for in the final race of the Championships to be held tomorrow. Thankfully it looks as thought the Larks have another glamorous day to look forward to out in Lyme Bay.

Results after Day 3: