Vortex Northern Championship at Yorkshire Dales Sailing Club
by Vortex Class Association 16 May 2008 17:59 BST
10-11 May 2008
18 Vortexex for the Northern Championships at Yorkshire Dales © Chris Craven
The lack of wind did not deter the 18 Vortex sailors turning up at the home of the largest national fleet of Vortexes in the country. For the second time running the weather forcast on Saturday was actually right and the faint zyphers of wind did not hold long enough to allow the boats on the water. Racing was abandoned for the day, some decided to trek 5 miles around the reservoir to build up a thirst, while others sat and watched in the sunshine.
Most retired to the local country pub for drinks, courtesy of our sponser ASAP International, and excellent food in nearby Appletreewick.
The early start on Sunday caught a few napping, however a force 1-2 breeze was developing and most were eager to get on the water to pack in as many races as possible. Continuing his current form Ian Escritt took the first race from his brother Keith (no rivalry there!) with Jonathan Lister in close contention followed by Phil Whitehead. A leaner and fitter Clive Harries. although away from the class for a year, was on good form and lost ground only towards the end.
Race 2 was a cat and mouse game in the shifty easterly wind with Ian, Keith and Jonathan battling it out until the last beat when Keith choose the right side and gained some ground. Phil Whitehead tactically (some say luckily!) also took the right hand side of the reservoir and passed both Ian and Jonathan to claim second place with a charging Ian on his tail on the line.
Race 3 after lunch, was dominated by Keith and Ian with Jonathan and Ben Rayner following up behind.
The last race of the day saw Ian reversing the result with Keith, though this time Neil Spink was showing great speed on their tails, with Jonathan coming 4th.
Both Ian and Keith had equal points and, as result of the winning the last race, Ian took the second open on the trot. Simon Middleton from Wilsonian SC, the lone non-asymmetric sailor, managed 4 bullets on the trot!
Thanks to Mike Saul for some excellent courses and ASAP International our sponsor. We are all looking forward to the next Grand Prix which is at a new location of Filey Sailng Club on 14/15 June.