Scottish Solo Travellers at Newburgh Sailing Club

With a good fresh wind forecast, ten visitors arrived to take on the 7 local helms on the mega tidal upper reaches of the Tay.

Pat Burns brought his brand new Boon boat for us to admire, Kevan Gibb brought the demo boat and Andy Hutch showed up briefly with the trophy.

Race 1 started in 20+ knots and it was soon clear that boat handling and particularly staying upright were the key ingredients. It looked like a familiar picture with Kevan taking the gun, Richard Bolton battling through to second from a poor start with David Sword slipping back to third after a refreshing first swim. Hamish, Robert and Gary had all shown flashes of speed to stay in the mix. Lady helm Katie, more at home in the lighter breezes, came through with a very strong sixth.

The wind stayed strong for the remaining 2 races won by Richard with Kevan in close attendance, helped by Swordie's altercation with the mud bank. These 3 took the final 1-2-3, with first local boat, Simon Richards 9 th a surprised and delighted middle-of-the–fleet-plus-one wine winner. Katie Masterson took the lady's prize, and Walter Mowat sailing the Scottish demo boat showed promising potential by taking a third in the middle race. PRO John Cameron was thanked for running the races very efficiently and coordinating the hard working rescue crews.

The fleet moves on to Loch Ard on the 5 October for the final event, AGM and prize draw for the new mainsail from class sponsor Scottish Sailing and North Sails. Everyone welcome, and a big turnout is keenly anticipated.

Overall Results: