Craftinsure Sandy Shell

never · Originally posted by mozzy

   The Craftinsure Sandy Shell was a fantastic success this Saturday with 23 boats. Ben Palmer and Kate Gibbs took the unofficial world championships through impressive consistency; however the competition was tight throughout the fleet.

Twenty-three is a fantastic turnout and it was pleasing to see many boats lent out… unfortunately some to more than one crew! This left eager teams scouting the dinghy park for 200s to liberate. Luckily everyone got on the water for the prompt 1100 start without having to go four up. 

The six races came so thick and fast I can’t remember exactly what happened in each, however, the atmosphere was fun and the whole fleet enjoyed close racing right up to the finish line. There were some close rivalries right the way through which is exactly what good racing should be about. So whether battling for first parent and child, top RS100 sailor or just trying to get one over your mate everyone enjoyed the racing. 

Some standout performances included Dicken Maclean and Hannah Young coming fourth despite missing two races as well as the under 16’s Angus, Will and Alex guiding their respective parents round the course. Then there was the fine s4b performance from Chris O'Neil and Tom Partington. After a sailing career of never ever taking anything seriously ever, they were finally rewarded as they combined great banter and questionable strategy with deceptive boat speed to take the prestigious bronze medal position (and the s4b fleet racing cup from no-show mark heather)! 

Lastly I must give a big thank you to John Rees and Rod and Maureen Porteous who ran excellent racing for the HISC RS200 fleet.