Comet open meeting at Shustoke Sailing Club

Shustoke Sailing Club welcomed a fleet of 15 Comets for its annual Open Meeting, including eight visitors who had travelled from clubs across the country, including Baltic Wharf, Beer, Burghfield, Eyott, Nottingham and Staunton Harold.

Competitors were greeted by warm, sunny conditions and a full reservoir free from the weed that has been a problem in previous years.

While the sunshine was plentiful, the wind certainly was not. Competitors faced lengthy calm patches and highly variable wind directions throughout the day. Credit must go to the race team, who successfully completed two races before lunch and a third race afterwards despite the challenging conditions.

A leisurely lunch, provided by the hard-working galley team, was greatly appreciated by sailors and volunteers alike.

Tim Mardon completing a roll tack - Comet open meeting at Shustoke - photo © Viki Rose

Race 1

The opening race was characterised by extremely patchy winds. Success depended on anticipating where the next zephyr would appear and positioning accordingly ahead of the opposition. The single-lap race took over an hour to complete, with the entire fleet converging as a breeze finally filled in from behind on the final run to the finish.

Home sailor Cole Briscoe mastered the conditions better than anyone, taking the win ahead of fellow Shustoke sailors Dave Turtle and Nigel Wilkins. Andy Dale (Eyott SC) led the visitors home in 4th place.

Ben, Peter and Chris picking their way up the first beat - Comet open meeting at Shustoke - photo © Viki Rose

Race 2

Conditions remained much the same for the second race, prompting the race team to set a shortened course. There were numerous place changes throughout the fleet as sailors searched for pressure and favourable shifts, creating plenty of close and friendly battles.

Once again, the home club boats filled the top three positions, with Cole taking another victory ahead of Harry Marlow and Dave. Andy was again first visitor in 4th.

Solo sailor Mike Cossey testing the Comet - Comet open meeting at Shustoke - photo © Viki Rose

Race 3

A slightly stronger breeze arrived for the final race of the day, blowing directly down the reservoir and providing a welcome change from the earlier conditions. A small triangular course was set, leading to more conventional racing.

Cole once again led the fleet home, while a close contest for second place developed between Harry and Dave. Alan Bennett (Staunton Harold SC) enjoyed his best race of the day, finishing equal third with Harry after a hard-fought battle in which every position had to be earned.

Henry Jaggers - Comet open meeting at Shustoke - photo © Viki Rose

Conclusion

Despite the lack of wind, the event proved to be an enjoyable and successful day of racing, with close competition across the fleet and excellent hospitality ashore.

A huge thank you goes to the race team for expertly managing the challenging conditions, the safety boat crews for their support throughout the day, and the galley team for keeping everyone well fed. Finally, thanks to all the visitors who travelled to Shustoke and helped make the event so enjoyable.

Cole Briscoe, first overall - Comet open meeting at Shustoke - photo © Viki Rose

Overall Results:

Andy Dale receives his prize as First Visitor - Comet open meeting at Shustoke - photo © Viki Rose