25th Comet open meeting at Cransley Sailing Club

25th Cransley Comet Open © John Townsend

In between 2 heatwaves, Cransley Sailing Club held their 25th Comet Open on Saturday 27th June 2026. And what a glorious day it was, 18 boats registered, a full reservoir, a lively Force 3-5 from the north and water at 19 degrees, plus the famous Cransley spread of refreshments to weigh everyone down!

The only slight downside was how quickly the twelve visitors got used to the windshifts and gusts etc on the reservoir and left the locals in their wake!

The racing was both competitive and friendly and after two races there was only one point between the top five sailors (Cole Briscoe, Alex Gore, Dave Turtle, Ben Palmer and Eddie Pope). In the final race Cole managed to hold off Dave Turtle to take the podium with Alex coming in third. Fourth, fifth and sixth was decided on countback between the ever present Ben, Eddie and Andy Dale.

25th Cransley Comet Open - photo © John Townsend

Special mention to Henry Jaggers who pulled out a fourth in the last race - lighting up his cigarette even before he got back to the pontoon in celebration.

The other epic battle that occurred was between the wily John Copenhall and his daughter Emma, with it going down to the last 20m of the last leg of the last race over who would take overall honours - well done Emma!

Well done to all who took part, it certainly inspired the Cransley Comets to up their game for next year. Huge thanks to John Townsend (DO), safety crew and foreshore help (Phil Davies and Georgie Hinde respectively) and to Sarah, my long suffering wife for the wonderful spread of food. Also to Sue Bull for the results and making sure everyone was registered etc.

Overall Results:

25th Cransley Comet Open - photo © Kirsten Supr