The forecast was a little adverse, but it didn’t deter 16 DAC Sailors from entering our Handicap racing day.

The Sou’Easter appeared for the last 2 races. We had a few course changes which actually started with one for the South West before the Metman’s predictions came good. The wind speed ranged from 8 up to 35 Km/Hr., (5 to 18 Knots). The early temperature started our day at 36^oC and gradually reduced to 23^oC by the end of sailing.

“A” sails had an early look in but the Fleet settled for a mix of “B” ’s and “C” ‘s to the end.

Each course produced a fluky breeze as the wind curved around the Clubhouse and various bushes in the adjacent park. Both Phil Stevenson and Graham Brown applied their expertise and set fair courses, although still tricky to manage.

Our Handicap days are certainly a great leveller with most boats scoring well. The points were within 1 or 2, going a fair way down the page with 2 countbacks needed.

Our Champion for the day was Judy Evans. Judy sailed with the best consistency. Two places and all high end scores gave Judy first place, settled by a countback. Phil Stevenson started with a 115 seconds handicap but somehow still managed to sail through the Fleet to earn all finishes at 6 or better. Phil scored an equal 23 points with Judy to come second on the day. Bruce Paterson won race 5 and with a few places scored 24 points to secure third place.

Getting a good start at one’s handicap time was a little difficult at times as the breeze swung randomly.

Anyway, it was a nice day out!

Race winners were Bruce Paterson 1, Brendan Hones 1, Robin Tickner 1, Karen Paterson 1, Stephen Deane 1 and Martin Thearle 1

Judy Evans took the honours for the day to win 1st place on 23 points.

Phil Stevenson finished in 2nd place on 23 points, resolved by a countback.

Bruce Paterson finished in 3rd place with 24 points.

The Club Championship now has Graham Brown in front from Phil Stevenson and Martin Thearle.

Our next Sail day is Thursday 14^th November for a Scratch Event.

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