Mirror Europeans at Poole Yacht Club - Day 3

Day three action from the Mirror Europeans at Poole © David Blyth / www.fotoboat.com

Day 3 of the 2006 Mirror started with rising temperatures and a light land breeze, the fleet were launched on time, but whilst waiting for the wind to settle a few thunder claps were heard in the distance. The race team had been tracking the storm and after consultation with the Met Office it was decided there was a strong chance the storm would hit the race course, so the fleet was sent ashore for an early lunch.

The first start of the day was in a light westerly, which was very patchy over the first beat, when it was clear the first boats were not going to reach the mark in the time limit the race was abandoned.

With the sea breeze fighting the land breeze, there was no choice but to keep the fleet hanging around. Eventually at 15.00 the sea breeze won the battle to give a decent wind, but after several general recalls and many black flags the reduced fleet got away at around 16.00. National Champions Hector and Ben Cisneros took the bullet, winning from MCA Youth Squad ladies, Emma Houlihan and Emily MacKenzie with Ronan Cull and Daniel Bergin from Ireland third.

With the sea breeze still building and gusting up to 15 knots, PRO Colin Rainback was able to get a second and the eighth race of the series completed. Again it was Hector and Ben who won from Ireland’s top rank Mirror sailors, Alan Blay and Cian Hickey, with Doire Shiels and Graham Daly also from Ireland third.

A weary fleet came ashore, and despite being very tied after a long hard day at the office, enjoyed a fantastic Nations Night where the competitors entertained the fleet with songs, plays and various culinary delights from around the world.

For those wanting to follow the action, Radio Mirror has race commentary from the water which is broadcast to the spectators, ashore and afloat, and can also be heard on the Internet. Go to www.ukmirrorsailing.com/euros for more information.

Results after Day 3: