Ronstan International Moth Grand Prix at Stokes Bay Sailing Club

The Stokes Bay Moth open was a chance for some to get into race shape ready for the Europeans the week following and for others just returned from the Worlds to put their boats back together.

Although the forecast never looked that promising for the Saturday, a light midday breeze caught some by surprize with the Race officer starting on time to make the most of it. The breeze didn't last and all except Jim McMillan were able to stay on the foils off the start line after coming from to windward of the line and going round the ends.

But the race was never to be, with a decreasing wind and adverse tide even Jim had to accept non foiling and the race was abandoned. This led to an afternoon wait for the wind until being abandoned for the day.

Sunday started wet but a much better breeze and with five races scheduled, the racing kicked off early. The trend for the day was set from the start with Chris Rashley fresh back from a Silver place at the Worlds leading the way.

However he wasn't going to have it all his way with Dave Hivey, sporting a new boat and rig, showing a turn of speed even at times over Chris. These two led all the races followed by some place changes with Jason Belben, and the Dans (Ward/Vincent/Ellis). Dave even managed to steal a race from Chris when weed helped to slow him downwind.

Stokes Bay dished up its standard champagne sailing with the sun emerging, a moderate south west breeze and Solent chop. The dilemma for some was to which foils to use with the wind changing in strength over the day and many rushing ashore to swap between races.

Five races were promptly enjoyed with the fleet getting a good shake out ready to take on the Europeans in Bordeaux France next week.

Thanks were given to Stokes Bay Sailing Club and SailTek who presented the Ronstan prizes.

Overall Results: