Splash Open at Grafham Water Sailing Club

The day started with a light south-westerly wind and light showers. Because of imminent exams a small fleet of ten boats had entered. An Olympic course was set with the first two races being sailed back to back.

Race 1
After a start in light winds (F1-2) Simon Barker took the lead from Tom Barker with James Large in third. Rain showers during the race made the wind drop away. After three laps Tom barker won with James Large second and Tom Harlow third.

Race 2
The same course was used but a wind shift saw different boats rounding the first mark, Tom Harlow leading from Todd Grady, with Anne Jessop in third. By the end of the race Tom had pulled out a significant lead from Todd with James Large having pulled up to third.

A break was taken for lunch of about an hour.

Race 3
James Large fought a tight race with David Jessop, covering him on every leg to kensure he kept his lead. Simon Barker took advantage of the conditions and passed his twin Tom into third place.

Race 4
The wind increased, gusting to force 4 at times for the last race. James Large again established an early lead of about 6 boat lengths from David Jessop, which he vigorously defended to the end. Simon Barker took third place after an exciting tussle with Tom Dring. Anne Jessop held onto fifth place for two laps before losing it!

Overall Results: