Handicap Open Meeting at Kielder Water Sailing Club

Kielder Water Sailing Club welcomed 24 boats to its annual Open meeting on 9 and 10 September. Race Officer Stephen Gibbon set separate courses for the Ospreys and fast handicap, asymmetrics, junior, and slow handicap fleets.

Saturdays races had a Southerly force 2-4 with big shifts which inevitably benefited some more than others. On Sunday, a gentle breeze seemed promising until it died away completely two minutes before the junior / slow handicap start. Careful sailing gave Dan Smith (Sunderland YC) an early lead in the juniors. Darryl and Dean Grainger whistled for the wind and eventually enough appeared for all three fleets to complete shortened courses.

The wind filled in for the final race, with overall placings divided amongst home boats and visitors. Prizes went to Kielder Ospreys and asymmetrics, and visitors were strongest in the fast handicap class. Consistent sailing throughout the weekend in the junior fleet produced a winning performance for Bruce Carnaby (Sunderland YC) and Ruth Bell in a Miracle, Hannah Lewis in her Laser Radial, and Megan and Bryony Clear Hill in an RS Feva. The valiant crewing skills of youngest competitor, Rosie Thumwood (7), led to first overall in the slow handicap class.

Overall Results: