Redwing & One-Design mid-July racing at Bembridge Sailing Club
by Mike Samuelson 24 Jul 11:12 BST
22-23 July 2023
As the intrepid crews participating in the Fastnet will dine out on, conditions on Saturday were definitely not for the faint hearted or Redwings or One-Designs!! However, with the breeze moderating on Sunday afternoon, six Redwings and three One-Designs headed out to a start off the relatively calmer waters off Drum.
Initially set as twice round a simple triangle using an inflatable windward mark laid inshore, Britten and Derek, an extra couple of legs were subsequently added as the breeze moderated as forecast.
With the breeze flicking 15 degrees prior to the start, the first beat to the windward mark was not the best, however at least it got them away.
Enigma, helmed by Mark Downer, was first round with Lady Laetitia helmed by Digby Morrison and Gosling, helmed by Rosie Gosling not too far behind. Unfortunately James Tate in Rosetta had to retire after the main sheet block disintegrated as they came to round the windward mark. Enigma was always the 'catch me if you can' leader and although its never over until its over, never really looked under pressure even though they were only two up in reasonably boisterous conditions off Derek.
On the challenging beat back to the line, Gosling took over second from Lady L. At the finish at Pepe after a final leg from Janson, Enigma crossed the line two minutes ahead of Gosling with Capella II, helmed by Mike Orange, just managing to overtake Lady L.
Although always at the back, well done to Alex (junior) Andreae in Prawn who despite the tiller extension parting company soon after the start safely made in round in some challenging conditions.
Jos Coad in One-Design No 8 got the best start and had a healthy lead ahead of Sarah Marshall in No 7 and Tim Cottrell in No 11, at the windward inflatable. Although at times it looked as if storm sails might have been a bit on the conservative side, the general consensus was that it had been the right decision.
Although victory for No 8 was never in doubt, Sarah kept the pressure up and was only a minute adrift at the finish at Pepe.
Daily racing starts Monday 24th July and goes through to the end of August.