GJW Direct Lark Nationals at Saundersfoot Sailing Club - Day 2
by Charles Roome 3 Aug 2015 20:29 BST
2-7 August 2015
Day 2 at the GJW Direct Lark nationals had a bit of everything, and three races later (owing to the uncertain forecast for the next two days) a tired fleet headed back up the beach to recharge their batteries for Crews Union and Board of Directors this evening.
The first race of the day saw an over-eager fleet pushing the line, for which a general recall was followed by a second start with an individual recall. Several big names went back, with a couple choosing to risk their luck.
At the head of the fleet Alan Krailing/Joe Hunt picked up a lead that they never relinquished. A big squall on the first reach reduced visibility and saw a few people inspecting their centreboards, leaving a chase pack of Ross Kearney/Jane Kearney and Chris Holliman/Kate Hutchins to take the podium places. Chris Whitehouse/Ruth Johnson recovered from kite issues to take fourth.
The second race saw a more mixed breeze with everything from breezy reaches to light runs. Alan/Joe escaped to make it two from two, with the boats behind having a close tussle in the shifty breeze. Steve Hall/Ally Hall emerged from the melee to take second, with Ross Kearney/Jane Kearney and Charlie Roome/Jeremy Stephens taking third and fourth.
The final race was held in a more consistent strong breeze, and Charlie/Jeremy made the best of the left hander just after the start. Nigel Hufton/Will Kennedy showed he had recovered from his earlier swim to take second, with Chris/Kate in third again.
Overall Alan/Joe lead the way, followed by Charlie/Jeremy, with Ross/Jane regretting their work commitments as they currently lie third.
Full results can only be seen in paper format at present! See photo at www.larkclass.org