Potter Ship Race at Royal Lymington Yacht Club
by Stephen Carden-Noad 5 Oct 2004 14:21 BST
Alice III helmed by Nick Rogers during the Pottership Race at Lyminton © Stephen Carden-Noad
The Royal Lymington’s Potter Ship Race, the Club's annual founder's race, was held on Saturday 2 October. This race is open to any keelboat over 18 feet in length, owned and helmed by a member.
The Forecast was not good. Rising winds and a strong wind warning in force. The 47 strong fleet (67 had entered but some thought that they would not sail) crossed the line in a bevy of boats and sails. The Olympic silver medalist Nick Rogers at the helm of Alice III. She was a spectacular sight. Later, as the wind strength increased, she reduced sails to a mizzen and two jibs.
At the start of the second round the wind increased, 33 knots on the indicator. Many decided that it was better to retire. 18 boats finished, including one XOD and 4 Folkboats.
The Duncan Hall Trophy was won by ‘Diana’ sailed by Eric Williams
The Hong Kong Junk was won by ‘Milly’ sailed by Richard Webb
The Potter Ship Trophy was won by ‘Jubilate’ sailed by David Wansbrough