Volvo Noble Marine RS700 Nationals supported by Hyde Sails at Eastbourne Sovereign SC - Day 1

The RS700 fleet started the 2019 Volvo Noble Marine National Championship Supported by Hyde Sails in Eastbourne in bright sunshine and a force 2-4 Northerly wind. With the following day's forecast looking fresh to fruity, the decision was made to sail three races on the first day rather than the advertised two.

The Northerly wind was proving gusty and shifty with all points of the compass represented. The first race saw the fleet spread across the first beat from left to right and those tacking up the middle. Banging right paid up the first beat with Roland Smith first around the windward mark with Rich Lilley hot on his heals. Many positions were exchanged, but to everyone's surprise (including his own) Richard Wadsworth sneaked passed everyone on the final leg to take the win.

Following his success in the first race Richard Wadsworth was keen to continue to impress so he proceeded to impale himself on the committee boat at the start. Not content with the first impact (once pushed off), the Punisher re-engaged the committee boat and dismasted it and all the flags. Meanwhile, Robbie Bell, reigning National and European Champion, powered to the front of the fleet showing glimpses of his championship winning form to take a comfortable win.

Volvo Noble Marine RS700 National Championship day 1 - photo © ESSC

Race three began in shifty trapezing conditions with Theo Galyer and James Bayliss arriving at the windward mark together. James was so excited about the prospect of coming first around the windward mark he decided to modify the racing rules of sailing to his advantage to squeeze the class chairman "out of position" and into a lively discussion about who should do turns. Luckily, this was quickly forgotten about as the class is such a friendly group of drinkers. Theo fired off downwind to take the win and the overall lead of the day.

Day one was sponsored by Rooster. Not only are they giving prizes for the first two days' racing but they have also provided every competitor with one of their brand new Joey Bottle Holders so all our water bottles will stay securely in the boat while we're out on the sea, regardless of just how epic the pitch-pole might be...

Volvo Noble Marine RS700 National Championship day 1 - photo © ESSC

Results after day 1:

Volvo Noble Marine RS700 National Championship day 1 - photo © ESSC