A fleet of 22 boats assembled from across southern England (plus an Irishman over here to collect his new boat) to enjoy a return to open meetings on the sea.

 

The weather was excellent over the two days with highs of 20c and winds of F3+ on Saturday and F2+ on the Sunday. Given the forecast for the Sunday the Race Officer decided to do 4 races on the first day to ensure a good result if the expected F1 materialised. The courses were set inside the huge Portland harbour, beating from the outer wall towards the sailing centre in the predominantly WSW breezes.

 

 Given the high-quality nature of the fleet results were shared amongst the top 7 finishers, though the familiarity with the venue showed in the top 2 positions. 

 

Starting was mostly orderly with the U flag only being brought in to play on Race 4 after a general recall, though Charles Apthorp was traditionally OCS in the first start. The fleet stayed together during the first 3 races which were windward-leeward courses. Race 4 was set as a run and triangle course for Race 4, which some regarded as a bit ambitious for the wind strength. 

 

The overall mood was further raised by the Association inspired by a round of wine on the Saturday after sailing provided by Waples Wines. Sunday's treat was a beer and pasty upon the tallying back in after the race. All of this made the assembled crews appreciate this near return to normality - only changing rooms and hot showers to go!

 

So next we have the National Championships in Rhu at RN&CYC. Please enter and come and enjoy another session of high-quality sailing.