RS 500 Winter Championship at Alton Water SC

by Debbie Darling on 10 Mar 2010 Report from the RS 500 Winter Championship at Alton Water SC on the 7th March.

The rather smaller than expected fleet was treated to ideal conditions for their championship with a force 3 to 4 easterly wind blowing over the dam wall and bright winter sunshine. The air and water temperatures were very low making the penalties for errors much more onerous that just time.

Everyone managed a taste of our wonderful water the arrival of the latest inversion usually being accompanied by a shrill cry.

All four races were completed in the crisp conditions with only the final race being shortened on grounds of good behaviour in the chilly conditions.

Saturday was a training day and fleet coach Ollie Spensley-Corfield had stayed on hand to debrief sailors after racing. His observations proved to be of great value to both competitors and the race management team. He excelled by not only bringing back some very informative video but also brought the race marks in.....Thanks Ollie

Although the results don’t show it the racing was close and Tim Wilkins and Heather Martin in 625 pushed Alex Taylor and Brian Mobbs all the way. The down wind sailing in particular was spectacular and tactical. Anna Zmurra and Keith Sykes despite numerous excursions from the upright to horizontal and beyond remained in good spirit and persevered with the conditions to come third.

A good days sailing and a really friendly group the RS 500s are always welcome back at Alton.

A big thanks go to Rosie Brett who kept us all fed watered from the galley, an essential part of such a cold days sailing and to all the team at Alton for keeping the event running smoothly.

Results

Position Helm Crew Sail No Club

1 Alex Taylor Brian Mabbs 799 Budworth SC
2 Tim Wilkins Heather Martin 625 Hickling Broad SC
3 Anna Zmura Keith Sykes 748 Rollesby Broad SC