GP14 Purcell Trophy at Blessington Sailing Club

GP14s becalmed at Blessington © Libby Tierney

Every GP14 event I’ve been to, over the last while, blows me away with the hospitality of the venue, the tight tactical racing and the craic we all have on and off the water.

Blessington Sailing Club excelled in theses areas this weekend, due to a great team of volunteers but one man, Richard Street stood out for me (no not because he has red hair) as he was seen consistently running around doing some essential task to make the event such a success.

While the winds were light & racing was unfortunately missed on the Saturday, the fleet didn’t seem to mind to much (well, me anyway) as we all got the chance to catch up with old friends, sun tans & enjoy the beautiful area in which the club is situated. As the sun eventually began to set, the fleet was treated by Richard & Cully to handmade burgers with all the dressings & plenty of fluids.

Day 2 the wind filled in just enough to knock of four 40 min races, which the fleet enjoyed immensely, due to the nature of the racing. The 26 boat strong fleet was only separated by about 5 minutes from first to last, and being unfortunate enough to miss your wind shift for a moment could see you lose enough places to go from first to last, such was the tightness in the racing.

Though as usual the cream does always come to the top; Clive Goodwin & Howard Davies took gold, Cathel Sheridan & David Cooke took silver. Peter Smith & Jacqui took bronze.

Again well done to everyone who competed in the excellent racing, thanks to Blessington Sailing Club for such a great event and massive thank you from all who attended to Richard Street for making the event what it was.

Overall Results: