Medway RC Laser Winter Series - Day 9

Bright sunshine welcomed the 15 racers to Barton Point, along with 8-10 knots of breeze from the SE. A trapezoidal layout was laid to keep boats separated especially with a fleet of 15 boats with two rounds for a race.

The "A" sail was the rig of choice. The beat was into the sun making the judging of distances even more awkward than usual. A rig stayed until after the coffee break at race 7 when the wind increased to just over 10 knots and moved to the right. The trapezoid was changed to a triangle sausage.

Tony Owens immediately set down the theme for the day with wins in Race 1 and 2. The Class Chairman, Adrian Tomlinson also showed that despite little practice he achieved a string of 2nd and 3rd places. Close racing meant that any turns or OCS put boats to the back of the fleet and high scoring spoiled results.

Some notable results from Charles Pegram with a well-earned 2nd place, Jon Moon with a consistent set of results that included a 2nd place and Ian Foxwell who was always challenging the front of the fleet, Jamie Blair and Pete Freeman adding to the challenge at the front of the fleet. We also welcomed two new sailors – Fin Atkinson and Roger White. Roger normally sails at Ardleigh Lake.

Starting well was extremely important in the big fleet – one exciting port end flyer by Tony Alexander brought applause from the racers and onlookers.

By our cut-off time of 12.30, 14 races had been completed. Tony Owens continued his consistency and won the day with Adrian Tomlinson in second. Third place was decided on countback with Pete Freeman taking 3rd and Jamie 4th place. Countback was also used to divide 6th and 7th and 9th and 10th.

The Winter Series continues for another five rounds with Tony Owens taking a substantial lead. The next 3 places only points apart.

Round 10 will be at the usual time on the 25th February.

Round 9 Results:

Winter Series Results: (after Round 9)