National Hansa Class TT Series Round 4 at Carsington Sailability
by Ian Chearman 1 Jul 2021 22:45 BST
23 June 2021
Fleet readying for the start - National Hansa Class TT Series Round 4 at Carsington © Benny Shakes
With Covid restrictions limiting entries and use of the club facilities, all supporting organisations and volunteers worked effectively together to provide a very successful and enjoyable day. As the club is now closed on Tuesdays we were unable to host the Fun Regatta, and although this was a disappointment the event day itself was enjoyed by everyone.
The changing rooms were open and the galley operated by our new caterer, kept us fed and watered. All visitors received a plan of the building and details of available facilities, and one way routes for purpose. The jetties were well controlled, socially distanced, safe, and well managed. The race briefing took place under our new, and extensive gazebo, where Race Officers and competitors were able exchange questions and information freely face-to-face.
We welcomed the offer by Hansa UK of the numbered flags to attach to our can buoys. The clearly marked flags made it much easier for sailors to follow the course. Hansa UK, as always, gave excellent support to this event.
We had eleven entries spread across four classes but one Liberty and one 303 were unable to attend. Three Libertys, three 303 single person, two 303 two person, and one 2.3 raced the event. This was disappointing in one respect, but in another, it meant that every sailor racing received a place medal and a certificate. There were three races back-to-back and two to count.
There was no presentation because of social distancing rules but medals and certificates were placed in envelopes on a table, sanitizer provided, for winners to collect.
The weather was forecast to be cool and cloudy with light winds from the NE but to everyone's pleasure it remained sunny and warm throughout the day. The light wind rarely left the water with frequent gusts of up to 10kts. The resulting wind shifts over the island and hills made the racing enjoyable and interesting, requiring good concentration and skills.
Racing was keenly contested in each class and lead positions changed frequently with close and exciting finishing. Tessa Watkiss managed to hold off the other two to be the winner. Pat Crowley and Paul Pearson were joint second in the Liberty Class.
Rory Mckinna edged out Mike Everitt who was second with Dennis Hantman a worthy third place medallist for the 303 one person group.
Carsington was represented by the 2 person 303 both having same household crew. Enid and Ian Chearman maintained an advantageous start to take all races, Gary and Mandy Flint were overall a creditable second.
Lyndsay Burns made up for the lack of competitors by challenging the 303 two person boats. It was a surprise for the leading 303, thinking that she had been left well behind once, to find her coming up astern and challenging at the finish.
Everyone enjoyed the much relaxed atmosphere, easier Covid rules, warmth, and the sunshine. This made for a comfortable feel during the Carsington Sailing Club president's vote of thanks. David Ayers congratulated all concerned on the happy and successful day. His knowledge of members present who were in the founding group and his mention of friendship with Mike Parkin, founder member, as was his knowledge and appreciation of all who make Sailabilty what it is today.
We at Carsington thank all our club members and all volunteers who give freely their valued support.
TT results can be found via www.hansaclass.org.uk