With many of the fleet either convalescing, away, or probably behind in their Xmas preparations, a robust fleet of 12 boats lined up for a cracking afternoon’s sail. A delight to see Geof back out again in 4088, crewed on this occasion by Pete T, as Dick was one of those busy attending to all things Christmas. Other changes to regular partnerships were Graham sailing with his grandson George in 3934, Ben returning to the front of 4114 (there was breeze forecast!), and playing her joker, Kim managed to stay ashore whilst Ian sailed with son Michael in 4115. It turned out that they may have also had Uri Geller onboard for a second time, as Ian managed to irreparably bend yet another mast lever due to forces unknown.

With Fi busy with other things too, the biggest change of all was Bob and Huw kindly stepping in to act as RO’s for the day. Can I just take this opportunity to say a big thankyou to Fi and everyone that helps run our racing. A twice weekly commitment is so gratefully appreciated and the racing provided has been spot on.

Bob spread the word ashore that it would be a committee boat start in the vicinity of NC12. The forecast delivered with a SE 12-18knots, and the course was NC 2, Christopher Head Craftsman Jeweller, NC2, Our Kid, Christopher Head Craftsman Jeweller, all to port, 5 laps with no line to go through after each lap (as the RO’s were also a roving camera).

With the tide helping to keep everyone the right side of the line, a port end favoured by a slight bias and less adverse current, the fleet were away cleanly. Four boats headed directly into the corner formed by Salterns Marina and seemed to benefit most, Richard and Ben edged in front and extended their lead throughout the rest of the race through a combination of sound tactics, excellent boat handling, and of course, the all-important factor of good speed and height! Crispin and Steve in 4101, although unable to hang on to 4114, sailed into a secure second with the rest of us changing places depending on whether best advantage was taken of either the shifts or the changing tide from flood to ebb. Perhaps the most notable was Roberta and John in 4016, who opted for the Wych on the final beat and closed with those vying for third, a feat they did not quite achieve, hence my scribing one more time!

There were plenty of smiles ashore afterwards, including David and Francis and Graham and George who, although retiring gracefully, were very pleased to have made the effort.

Thanks again to Bob and Huw for a great race, and their cinematic record of the day. Congratulations to Richard and Ben (and Jack and Eddy) for winning the Autumn Saturday Series and A Merry Christmas and Very Best Wishes for the New Year to you all.

See you for the Last Blast!

Results
4114 Richard & Ben
4101 Crispin & Steve
3793 Pete & Jo
4016 Roberta & John
4115 Ian & Michael
4088 Geof & Pete
3922 Andrew & Mike
3966 Richard & Alan
3974 Ann & John
4027 Mike & David
3971 David & Frances (RTD)
3934 Graham & George (RTD)