Buzz Open at Downs Sailing Club
by John Cass 5 May 2008 22:30 BST
3-4 May 2008
This year's Buzz open at Downs Sailing Club, Deal on the 3rd-4th May promised to be a memorable event with moderate south east winds forecast with plenty of sunshine to boot.
Saturday however started with near zero wind and the postponement flag was reluctantly raised. Fortunately the wind started to appear and three races were eventually held for the eleven assembled buzzes in gradually increasing wind starting with a easterly 1 - 2 then backing to north easterly force 4-5.
Races one was won by Ed and Sarah Styles in a tight race initially headed by John Cass and Julia Blackman after a good start but later closely fought with National Champion Simon Cory crewed by Katie Restall and Stuart Bailey crewed by Zoe Noble.
Race two followed a similar pattern with identical results for the first four boats although the rest of the fleet all changed places all throughout both races.
There was a slight change of order in the third race when the national champion Simon Cory finally asserted his authority and took first place albeit in a close fought battle with the Styles.
In the evening the competitors enjoyed a sumptuous barbecue followed by a rather strange quiz on the topic of plants which the Styles won with an impressive score of 27/28.
Sunday morning dawned with brilliant sunshine but unfortunately no wind, the race officer reluctantly abondoned at midday when no signs of change were apparent and the prize giving ceremoney was held on the beach.
The Buzz class would like to thank Downs Sailing Club and all of its helpers for another great event.
Overall Results:
1st Ed Styles and Sarah Styles (Downs SC)
2nd Simon Cory and Katie Restall (Downs SC)
3rd Stuart Bailey and Zoe Noble (Medway YC)