GJW Direct Firefly Nationals at Restronguet - Day 4

GJW Direct Firefly Nationals at Restronguet © Sheridan Brown

GJW Direct Firefly Nationals at Restronguet day 4 © Serena Stewart

Marlow and Gore Trophy Day

To the setting of a stunning view of the Southern Cornish Coast the fleet sailed out to the bay for the long distance race. Originally the championship race now just a very coveted trophy. The day kindly sponsored by Marlow Ropes had sunshine, sparkling seas and perfect firefly planing conditions.

The triangle course of over 10 nautical miles certainly sorted out the fleet order. Close racing was had by all. The strong North westerly breeze was shifting on the shore and gave the heavier crews a gain upwind. The lighter crews got the payback downwind with 2 miles of reaching each lap!

After a general recall curbed the enthusiasm. Paul and Chris Kameen led round lap one chased hard by Stuart Hudson/Hollie Marston, Nigel Wakefield/Emily Saunderson. The mornings championship leaders and 2014 Gore winners Ben Lumby/Liz Evans from the host club were in the mix throughout the race. After round one the Kameens had a convincing lead but as the wind increased Fursty Ferret reaching speed closed the gap. The West Kirby crew hiking contest between Chris Kameen and Hollie Marston saw youth win!! Final places were Hudson/Marston, Wakefield/Saunderson, Kameens.

Slightly further down the fleet a fascinating battle was developing for the Marlow (ropes) trophy for the best placed Silver Fleet boat on the day. Youngsters Oliver and Bea Burrows from West Oxford Sailing Club came through to clinch the trophy. The girls contest was close behind with second going to locals Sophia Hulbert and Dad Alan, and third to Lucy Boreham and Rachel Crebbin.

Gore Trophy prize giving during the GJW Direct Firefly Nationals at Restronguet - photo © Serena Stewart

Results after Day 4: (six races, 1 discard)

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