Rooster South East Topper Travellers at Greenwich Yacht Club

Rooster South East Topper Travellers at Greenwich © Jim Four

Quality over quantity?

Something put off Topper sailors coming to the event this year. Perhaps post-Royal Wedding exhaustion? Probably a clash with a Zone Squad event and possibly an uninspiring weather forecast. Maybe a mistake, as the weather delivered nicely in the end. Competitors were greeted by a very localised, unexpected mist across part of South-East London but this rapidly burnt off, to be replaced by a lovely, clear 5-8 knot Easterly breeze accompanied by glorious sunshine all day. So, the five determined competitors who did turn up had a great day's sailing. The six races, low water series started with some short races, building after a break to a three lap sausage-and-triangle test of the competitors' tidal sailing skills as the increasingly strong current led to some skilful and/or lucky mark rounding.

Rooster South East Topper Travellers at Greenwich - photo © Jim Four

There was a great view and plenty to see for parents and supporters – one saying 'I've never watched a race from above', as they looked down from the sunny balcony of the architecturally dramatic yacht club, set on stilts above the Thames. Notable events included a luffing match between the leaders which led to the whole fleet following and rounding a mark which they didn't need to. Other noteworthy moments included Orla McLelland running aground in one race, only to nip into the lead on the next race with a neatly executed tack onto starboard, making the others duck behind her. Great credit to GYC member Alex Jeffery, who had only returned to sailing a few weeks ago – great to have you back, Alex. Orla and Alex took joint fourth.

Throughout, there were only two sailors in line for first place, with Bill Hudson and Aaron Evans initially alternating first and second places in the early races. Finally, though, Aaron took just enough first places to win the event overall. Congratulations to Aaron and all who took part.

A big thank you to all the Greenwich YC members, for making the day a big success and to Rooster for supporting the Traveller series.

Overall Results:

1st Aaron Evans
2nd Bill Hudson
3rd Miles Vidler
4th= Orla McLelland and Alex Jeffery

Rooster South East Topper Travellers at Greenwich - photo © Jim Four