We started the New Year with a very successful Handicap sailing day.

Twelve DAC Sailors came along, despite the following forecast.

The weather was not very promising with showers threatening all day. We stayed dry ‘til the last race and all were happy to continue.

The temperature was around the mid 20’s and a gusty Southerly ranged from 20 up to 46 Km/Hr, (11 to 25 Knots).

A full tide allowed the course to be set fairly close and we enjoyed smooth waters.

A mix of “C” and “D” sails were chosen with several changes for some during the day.

The handicap times were carried over from last year with many fairly close together. The starts had many boats within seconds of each other and it almost resembled a scratch day.

Nevertheless, we had some good competitive racing.

The day was won by Judy Evans who now enjoys the lead as both Club and Handicap Champion. Judy’s starting handicap was no gift and she worked her way through on many occasions to score well in the front group. Although her handicap was lengthening, Judy finished in a blaze of glory with 1, 3, 2, 1 to win with a score of 30 points.

Graham Brown has to work hard on a handicap day and yesterday was no exception. Starting from 100 secs., Graham still managed all his scoring finishes in the front half and came home in second place with a score of 33 points. Stephen Deane enjoyed another well sailed day on the water. All his scoring finishes were also in the front half and with a score of 34 points, Stephen came third by a point.

Paula Reilly being quite new at RC sailing benefitted with a comfortable handicap. Once underway, Paula held off many challenges and excelled in race 8 with a win.

Wins and places were spread throughout the fleet, with everyone having a smile at some stage. As a result, all our handicaps have blown out, it will be interesting when our others return for the next day in February.

Philip Hetherington suffered a terminal gear failure and was unable to sail after race 1. Philip kindly offered to take on the scoring and Race Officer duties. Thank you Phil.

Race winners were Judy Evans 2, Noel McPherson 1, Lew Verdon 2, Rob Lowndes 2, Martin Thearle 1, Paula Reilly 1 and John Porter 1.

Judy Evans took the honours for the day to win 1st place on 30 points.

Graham Brown finished in 2nd place on 33 points.

Stephen Deane finished in 3rd place with 34 points.

The Club Championship now has Judy Evans in front from Graham Brown and Stephen Deane.

Our next Sail day is Thursday 11^th January for a Scratch Event.

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