Kielder Water Sailing Club Flying Fifteen Open

September 16 - 17

The forecast was for no petrol and winds of 18 - 20 knots. In the end we had less wind but petrol was not too big a problem. The event was part of the Club Open Meeting and we had visitors in the various classes from as far afield as Plymouth and Manchester.

Sadly there were only 2 visiting Fifteens and only 3 of the home boats were able to make it. However we had some close racing. On the Saturday the winds were light, force 1 - 2, and both races were won by Simon Robinson from Derwent in 3232, with Giles Passmore from Kielder in 797 second and Graham Donkin from Ullswater in 3300 third, and Bill Graham and Martin Downey following close behind.

Sunday morning dawned clear but with lighter winds which died away to zero during the first race, and then went through 360 degrees before picking up again. Graham Donkin won this race with Simon Robinson second. For the two afternoon races the wind picked up to force 3 - 4. Simon Robinson won the fourth race with Graham Donkin second. Simon declined the last race which Giles won followed by Graham Donkin, Bill Graham and Martin Downey.

Credit due to Elizabeth Donkin and Jo Downey, 11 and 13 years respectively, who were crewing for their fathers in what were at times difficult conditions.

Overall results:

1st Simon Robinson 3232 Derwent RSC
2nd Giles Passmore  797 Kielder Water SC
3rd Graham Donkin  3300 Ullswater SC
4th Bill Graham    2869 Kielder Water SC
5th Martin Downey  2648 Kielder Water SC

More Information:

• YachtsandYachting.com Flying Fifteen Page
• UK Flying Fifteen Class Website