Fourteen Sailors arrived yesterday for our scratch racing.

We welcomed our new member, Rob Widders sailing #209, previously owned by Mark Luland.

We also welcomed a visitor from New Zealand, Stephen MacIlpuhan, a DF sailor who sailed #214.

Thank you to Mick Costa who again opted to score and R.O. Mick took no prisoners with the starts!

The conditions were very threatening when we arrived as rain was almost starting, but no.

True to the forecast the skies gradually cleared and by the end of sailing it was almost zinc cream and thongs!

The wind started from the North and swung to the East ranging from 6 up to 20 Km/Hr., (3 to 11 knots). The temperature reached a pleasant 17^oC.

“B” sails were the popular choice but they sometimes struggled in the lighter patches.

Graham Brown set a course which avoided some of the lulls but not all.

One had to be brave to take a direct line to the windward marks rather than sailing wide to the left.

Our top three sailors mastered the conditions well with Phil Stevenson winning the day. Phil won 4 out of 8 races and scored a mere 9 points.

Martin Thearle came home in second place with 12 points and Graham Brown a close third on 14 points.

The nearest contender to the podium was Stephen Deane with 24 points and all finishes in the front half of the fleet.

There were 2 countbacks. Judy Evans pipped Geoff Lucas for fifth place and Trevor Bowden won the seventh spot from Brian Chapman.

Tim Alexander had a great sail in race 7. Tim came second, probably his best to date in a very competitive fleet

It was difficult sailing. There seemed to be quite a bit of luck involved in getting a good result but the top boats managed it well. The scoresheet always tells the story.

Race winners were and Phil Stevenson 4, Martin Thearle 2 and Graham Brown 2.

Phil Stevenson took the honours for the day to win 1st place on 15 points.

Martin Thearle finished in 2nd place on 17 points.

Graham Brown finished in 3rd place with 20 points.

The Club Championship now has Martin Thearle in front from Phil Stevenson and Noel McPherson.

Our next Sail day is Thursday 16^th July for a Scratch Event.

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