Merlin Rocket Vintage Open at Hampton Sailing Club
by Derek May 6 Sep 2009 09:28 BST
5 September 2009
Vintage Merlin Rockets race for points in the 'De May' series © Derek May
Twelve vintage merlins took part in this round of the De Mays series and they were to enjoy good racing, with some close contests up and down the fleet.
The first race saw Mike Stephens crewed by Matt Perrigrine-Jones, Minima Sailing Club, take an early lead which they greatly extended during the first downwind leg. This comfortable lead was never seriously contested and left the rest of the fleet to fight for the other places. Second spot going to Phil Dalby crewed by Suzannah Bell, Hampton Sailing Club, with Richard and Lizzie Page coming from 8th place at the end of the first lap to finish third.
The second start had Phil Dalby gain an early lead only to lose it on the second lap to Mike Stephens, these positions were to be maintained to the end of the race although the margin at the end was much closer than on the first race. The third spot going to Richard Page.
The final race, once again, saw Mike Stephens and Phil Dalby having a close battle with Mike holding on to take the race, John Bell crewed by Duncan Bell challenged at times but had to be content with third in the end.
Final positions
1st 1097 helmed by Mike Stevens crewed by Matt Perrigrine-Jones from Tamesis Sailing Club
2nd 1761 helmed by Phil Dalby crewed by Suzannah Bell from Hampton Sailing Club
3rd 1222 helmed by Richard Page crewed by Lizzie Page from Hampton Sailing Club
4th 1201 helmed by John Bell crewed by Duncan Bell from Hampton Sailing Club