Previously run as a long series, this has been compacted into a weekend series of 5 races. Sun and blue skies were the order of the day, while the wind struggled to settle down.
A forecast easterly did come in, but the strength was variable throughout the afternoon. Feedback from the sailors suggested the wind direction was equally variable! Simon was keen to suggest to the OD (every time he passed the Bates) that the course was in the shadow of Sale Fell.
Before the start, Gary queried AJ as to how Chris/Julie managed to stop dead still. He discovered a second later when, he too stopped dead in his tracks when ran aground! AJ opted to strip to his shorts before jumping overboard to get them underway again.
Scumper/Zefer had a flying start in the 2nd race, only to be recalled. Later in the 2nd race Simon/Jon were reluctant to give up their lead on Mike/Kayla and invoked some mega luging tactics. Although they won that war, Mike went on to win the battle…
Sunday was cloudier and cooler with slightly stronger winds which were to be useful to get the three scheduled races in (even if tiring for some sailors).
While Sue was recovering from her daughter’s wedding, AJ recruited Karen, the flagpole dancing decorator, as a temporary stand in. Tim was keen to push Simon over the start line in the first race, but failing to realise he too was over, and not returning after being recalled, led to him being awarded OCS.
As ever, Mik was enthralled by the tweets and webcam images, and decided to pop down to sail. Actual conditions put him off, so he returned home to watch the Grand Prix.
Tim was later involved in an incident with training officer Neil who collided with Tim, capsized, and realised his leg was caught in the mainsheet!
Banter was in the groove today, being more confident that he was finding how to tune his RS100, he was able to have some close racing with Scumper/Zefer, securing a 1st in the 2nd race of the day, to add to his bullet from Saturday. Scumper won the final race of the day and the Asymmetric Cup.
Simon/Jon had a better day leading all three races, but rear commodore Andy and Ginger Phil in a GP put in three good races as well taking a 2nd and two 1sts to win the MJM Trophy.
If you want to see how Andy/Ginger Phil worked the shifts check out this link that shows what was recorded on his GPS during the afternoon racing. It shows his 11miles of sailing!
Next weekend we are hosting the Great North Asymmetric Challenge, to benefit from the £10 early bird discount make sure your entry is submitted by midnight tonight (Sunday)