Lymington Town Sailing Club Dragon Force 65 Championship
by Jonathan Johns 24 Feb 2015 09:49 GMT
22 February 2015
LTSC Radio Controlled Dragon Force 65 Championship © LPB Aerial Imagery /
www.lpbaerial.com
Action packed close racing
The monthly LTSC Radio Controlled Dragon Force 65 Championship took place on Sunday 22nd February, in what can only be described as dire weather conditions. With over thirty boats locally and the fastest growing fleet in the UK the entries were hit by the weather, however in gusts that reached forty knots with rain a plenty racing prevailed. Of the eighteen entries the weather and gear failure took there toll. It was somewhat surreal to look around at those competing, wrapped up well in full coastal/offshore sailing kit with the driving rain dripping from their faces. On looking up towards the balcony of LTSC, behind the large glass windows you saw a growing number of members watching whilst eating and drinking. It was almost gladiatorial in a modern sense.
Technically those sailing with the smallest of the three rigs proved to be the wisest, as even this rig did not prevent some serious nose dives downwind. Those on the larger A and B rigs provided the most entertainment which brought back memories of the old IOR days when being overpowered, unable to manoeuvre and epic broaches were the norm.
This was the first major event for some new owners such as Simon Maguire, normally a name associated with International Moths. Whilst he and other new owners had their moments, the slightly more experienced owners prevailed. After two flights of four races new owners Alex Hayman/James Dodd just pipped Paul Davis into third. The fight for the top two positions was again down to the last race. Seasoned sailor Keith Willis prevailed to claim the title. In doing so beating top female skipper Beverley Johns by just two points.
Analysis will show that the best prepared boats sailed by the more experienced model yacht racers prevailed, but only just. The latest batch of owners are snapping hard at the heels and I'd expect a few new stars to emerge in next months championship. For now ex Mini Transat 6.50 sailor and current RS sailor Keith Willis is the man to beat!
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