It was a challenging day on the water yesterday.

Thirteen DAC Sailors attended on the eve of the Easter Holiday weekend.

The forecast was close to the mark with a Southerly breeze at 8 to 21 Km/Hr., (5 to 12 Knots) and 23^oC.

There was an attempt of a rain-shower which only had a few spits. Unfortunately though, it left us with a light Sou’Easter requiring a significant course change to the Eastern side.

The choice was for C sails.

We are grateful to Judy Evans who deputised as the Easter Bunny. A sugar hit before racing was a pleasant way to start the day.

Thank you Judy for the Easter eggs.

Our nominated Race Officers once again did a great job. We all behaved well with 2 general recalls to set the tone.

Judging the start line was tricky, we mastered this after a few goes. Once under, way a port tack was required to chase the stronger breeze.

The new course to the East for races 7 and 8 required some courage. The option was to chase the breeze and sail well wide to port or take a chance and try up the middle. There were varying successes.

Noel McPherson raced away with wins in races 1 and 2. In fact another win in race 7 with 2 second places scored him 12 points and winner for the day. Graham Brown was neck and neck with Noel but an unfortunate tangle resulted in a score of 14.5 points and second place. Graham also had 3 wins and 2 places. Stephen Deane was the main challenger for a top spot with a first and all high finishes. Graham and Noel didn’t leave much for the rest of us but Stephen comfortably took third place overall. Martin Thearle is a very consistent high finisher. Martin scored 20.5 points with 3 places and he led many close challengers.

Overall, places went well down the page and this completed a testing day.

Race winners were Noel McPherson 3, Graham Brown 3, Stephen Deane 1 and Brian Chapman 1.

Noel McPherson took the honours for the day to win 1st place on 12 points.

Graham Brown finished in 2nd place on 14.5 points.

Stephen Deane finished in 3rd place with 20.5 points.

The Club Championship now has Graham Brown in front from Phil Stevenson and Noel McPherson.

Our next Sail day is Thursday 24th April for a Scratch Event.

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