Optimum Time Watches Phantom Southern & Eastern Travellers at Island Barn Reservoir Sailing Club

Something different in the way of Event Banners at the Island Barn Phantom Open © Jim Champ

Another very cold and nicely breezy reach for John Oldham at the Island Barn Phantom Open © Jim Champ

Event winner John Oldham leads Steve (borrowed sail) Popham on a chilly reach during the Island Barn Phantom Open © Jim Champ

Icy roads and snow significantly reduced attendance at this popular joint Optimum Time Watches Southern & Eastern Travellers event, however, three Phantoms did start without initial mishap in a strong NE wind.

Half way through race one Richard Barker's escapade was soon over when his sail shredded in a prolonged heavy gust. After leading throughout John Oldham had to settle for 2nd on Steve's 57th birthday when he chose the wrong finish mark. Steve, who borrowed Ivan Walsh's famous Prawn Star for the event, decided to call it a day as his icy mainsheet began slipping through frozen fingers.

Incredibly, John went on to complete races two and three alone and take the overall win. A genuine local hero!

Sincere thanks to Island Barn for cheerfully putting on this event which was run to their usual high standard in challenging conditions.

Overall Results:

1st 1351 John Oldham (Island Barn SC)
2nd 1300 Steve Popple (Shoreham SC)
3rd 1289 Richard Barker (Island Barn SC)