Border Counties Midweek Sailing at Bala Sailing Club

Twenty-six boats arrived at Llyn Tegid early Tuesday morning to be greeted by overcast skies and a cool brisk breeze blowing straight down the length of the lake. However, even the typical mountain weather could do nothing to dampen the spirits of the sailors keen to sample one of the very best sailing venues in the area.

Fortunately, the weather gradually improved throughout the day and there was a great atmosphere with so many boats accompanied by a few supporters who had come along to encourage their clubs. This was enhanced by the very warm welcome extended by Bala Sailing Club and the enthusiasm of the race team.

The fleet comprised nineteen visitors and seven home boats sailing fifteen different classes ranging from a Topper (PYR 1365) to an A Class catamaran (PYR 690). It was also encouraging to see the younger sailors competing alongside the more mature sailors (no ages given!).

Border Counties Midweek Sailing at Bala - photo © Colin Bosomworth

Race Officer Ken Hull and his team set some excellent courses that were adjusted for each race as the wind veered from a steady south-westerly blowing straight down the lake to a shiftier north-westerly coming over the hills. Safety crews were kept busy (and spectators entertained) as several boats were caught out on the downwind legs by sudden gusts and the infamous Bala "chop" that builds up over such a long stretch of water.

Two newcomers to the series, Daniel Partington (Bala) and Glyn Purnell (Leigh and Lowton), in their Laser Radials soon mastered the conditions and between them won all three races taking first and second positions overall. Third overall was Peter Coop (Winsford Flash) in his Supernova who was always in the top three and consolidates his spot at the top of the series leaderboard.

Shotwick Lake boats took the next three positions with Jeremy (Lightning), Dave and Huw (Miracle) and Paul (Streaker). Just half a point adrift in seventh was the Solo of Phil Snewin from Chester who moves up to second on the overall leaderboard.

Border Counties Midweek Sailing at Bala - photo © Colin Bosomworth

A great day on the water was rounded off by prize-giving in the clubhouse and the offer of hosting a similar event next year. We'll definitely take them up on that!

The next event in the series is at Shotwick on 7th September. Don't forget your masthead buoyancy!

Please look at bordercountiesmidweeksailing.wordpress.com for more information or send us an email to if you have questions.

Border Counties Midweek Sailing at Bala - photo © John Hunter

Overall Results:

Border Counties Midweek Sailing at Bala - photo © John Hunter