Spring May Bank Holiday Lake Orienteering and racing sprints
Published 15:03 on 29 May 2023
The Spring Bank Holiday was pure summer as champagne conditions of a clear sky and an unusual brisk northerly whipping up sparkling water greeted sailors, kayakers and paddle boarders.
In the morning Paul Gray and team had organised lake orienteering using a medley of craft allowing variety and options for all. The lake was seen at its finest and in a more leisurely manner then the action of racing. Thanks to the organisers for making this happen.
For the afternoon racing, Race Officer Neil Marshall anchored the Committee Boat off the South shore allowing good use of the lake length to secure a first beat. This was followed by a spacer to port and then a long run to down behind the committee boat. A second beat to the first mark and return to a special finish line from the committee boat completed the single lap sprint race course. After 6 such races the fleet got the hang of the course though fatigue was counter-acting familiarity and a few shouts were needed to redirect courses.
The beautiful conditions allowed for a full-on hiked beat, and a pure run allowing either tack to be set on the run, or broader reaches with gybes. After a jittery general recall, for which Dave Nixson understood quickest what two hoots means, Race 1 was underway at 1400. Ian Matthews Solo and Dave Nixson Solo sandwiched out Jon Crosser's laser. In R2 Jon took the honours with Peter May entering the places with Ian in 3rd. In the next 4 races Ian took 2, Peter May and Dave took one each. So 4 race winners and lots of tactical sailing.
Congratulations all sailors for a well fought afternoon including Lightnings, Xenon, Byte, RS200 and Wayfarer.
In the junior action Will took the win over the Zest and Feva crews.
A top team of race management is thanked as well. There were regular wind shifts, pressure changes, recalls and capsizes to attend to making it fun for all.
Full results see Results Tab
Photo credit Robert Marshall
Last updated 15:50 on 12 January 2025
