Comet open meeting at Burghfield Sailing Club

Eleven Comet sailors arrived at Burghfield Sailing Club on 27th April to find a rather cold day, with a pleasant, but shifty wind. Four races were held, with three to count. Ian Stone from Maidenhead won all four races, but behind him the racing was very close, with many place changes and four different helms taking second place.

In race one Michael Ettershank took second place from Chris Robinson on the final run by picking up the wind first when the fleet became becalmed. In race two Peter Mountfield looked to be in a safe second place, but clipped the wing mark allowing Chris through to take second.

In race three the two Xtra rigs, sailed by Henry Jaggers and John Sturgeon, sailed into the lead. At this point a windy squall, with rain that reduced the visibility, came through. Two boats retired, but the others sailed on. There were many changes in position as some helms struggled in the wind. However, as the squall passed and visibility improved, it was John Sturgeon who was in second place behind Ian.

There was more wind in the final race, and Ian and Chris vied for the lead for the first lap. Another squall came through when they were on the run, and Chris nose-dived and lost control, allowing Peter to take second place. With two third places from races two and three, this gave Peter second place overall. Third place was a three way tie between Chris, Michael and Ben Palmer, with Chris taking third place on count back.

Overall Results: