Eastern Topper Traveller Round 4 at Snowflake Sailing Club

Henry Lambert, the Human Pretzel - Eastern Topper Traveller Round 4 at Snowflake, Wroxham © Trish Barnes

Well, if the weather forecast could've pulled off a stand-up comedy routine, it would've been a hit. Predicting gusts of up to 30 knots, it had everyone bracing for a nautical rodeo. Instead, it served us a cocktail of light breezes and "where-did-the-wind-go" moments, sprinkled with a dash of sailor frustration.

Personnel: The ever-diplomatic James Dugdale took charge as Race Officer, orchestrating the chaos with the finesse of a circus ringmaster. Richie Dugdale, though not present, masterfully organised everything in preparation for the event. Coaching duties on the training day fell to Flip Foulds and Harry Wemyss, who probably wished they were coaching in the Bahamas. Meanwhile, Paddy Wildman was busy crunching numbers faster than the wind, handling the results like a Sailwave Queen.

Safety was paramount, thanks to the vigilant efforts of Michael Wemyss, Trish Barnes, Toby Pearce, Ian and Dave Hearsum, and Mark Haller - our heroes on the water.

Sailing on a mirror rather than in a Mirror - Eastern Topper Traveller Round 4 at Snowflake, Wroxham - photo © Trish Barnes

Weather Conditions: Race 1 started with a southerly breeze of 5-8 knots, which quickly decided to play hide and seek, dropping to a mere 1-2 knots by the time sailors reached the first mark. Race 2 continued with a slightly more cooperative 5-8 knots from the south. By Race 3, we saw some real action with winds picking up to 6-10 knots.

Finally, Race 4 delivered almost perfect sailing conditions with a steady southerly breeze of 10-12 knots. The forecast had teased us with gusts of up to 30 knots, but reality played it much milder. Despite the relatively balmy temperature of 10 degreesC, it felt like a tropical paradise compared to the previous day's Antarctic-like 3-5 degreesC. Visibility remained generally good, at least when not obscured by rain streaks on the clubhouse windows.

Competitors: The event saw a brave turnout of 26 sailors, although 2 last-minute cancellations suggested some sailors had second thoughts after seeing the forecast. Among the notable competitors was Nathan Clark, a dual representative of WOBYC and Draycot Academy, who returned with a steely determination to defend his top spot in the series. His main rival, Harry Wemyss from Hickling SC and SFSC, aimed to dethrone Nathan and claim the coveted top position.

The event welcomed several first-time ITCA travellers: Zoe Barnes, Oliver Besant, Seth Blackburn-Cann, and James Oakley, who were thrown straight into the deep end of the competition. Joining them were newcomers to this particular series: Daisy Coates, Emma Coates, Isobelle Johnson, Harriet Reeves and Lucas Rooke, all eager to make their mark. Meanwhile, 15 seasoned veterans of previous series returned to battle it out, adding a mix of experience and fresh enthusiasm to the fleet.

Toby Turner and Nathan Clark - Eastern Topper Traveller Round 4 at Snowflake, Wroxham - photo © Trish Barnes

Race 1:

Toby Turner led to the windward mark, followed by Nate Sparrow. The wind took a siesta, and Rob Hole caught up. Henry Lambert missed a mark, Faith Turner kindly pointed it out, and Henry, like a gentleman, went back to fix his mistake, finishing just behind her in 8th..

Rob's yoga-like body position did wonders, sequestering some alternative energy meant he took the victory. Namaste!

Race 2:

Harry opted for a pin-end start, Nathan chose the committee end. Faith led after the first lap, with the WOBYC trio of Toby H, Nate Sparrow and Nathan hot on her heels. Positions 3-7 shuffled like a deck of cards on the beat to the windward mark. Penny and Josh had a tactical duel up the second beat, with Penny gaining the upper hand.

Faith Turner showed her prowess, finishing first with a commanding lead.

Race 3:

Clean start in light winds, Nathan led a tight pack of four. Shouts of "starboard" echoed as they approached the windward mark. The downwind leg turned into a game of "dodge the Star-class yacht," adding to the excitement. Wind gusts built, and spectators cheered as Faith powered towards the finish.

A dramatic finish between Toby and Nathan, with Faith making a strong push.

Race 4:

The fleet split up either side of the beat, with the right side gaining an edge. The finish was a nail-biter, with Toby and Nathan duking it out for the top spot.

Toby managed to fend off Nathan in a thrilling photo finish.

Endeavour Award: Harriet Reeves (Snettisham Beach SC), for her relentless effort and positive spirit, even when the wind seemed to conspire against her.

Toby Turner, Nathan Clake, James Oakley and Faith Turner - Eastern Topper Traveller Round 4 at Snowflake, Wroxham - photo © Hayley Turner

A huge thank you to our generous sponsors: Noble Marine, Optimum Time, Harken, Rooster, RYA, Topper International. And a big round of applause to the Race Officer James Dugdale, Event Host Richie Dugdale, coaches, safety personnel, and the Snowflake Sailing Club team for keeping us afloat, organised, and well-fed.

Next Events:

Next Traveller: Grafham Water Sailing Club, 29th-30th March.
NS2: Weymouth, 8th-9th March.

The day was a testament to the indomitable spirit of the sailing community. Thank you to everyone who braved the elements, made us laugh, and reminded us why we love this sport. See you at the next event, where we hope the wind behaves just a bit better!

James Dugdale (RO) and Faith Turner - Eastern Topper Traveller Round 4 at Snowflake, Wroxham - photo © Hayley Turner

5.3 Fleet Results:

4.2 Fleet Results:

James Dugdale (RO) and Toby Turner - Eastern Topper Traveller Round 4 at Snowflake, Wroxham - photo © Hayley Turner