Typhoon Fireball Open at Chew Valley Lake SC

by Richard Wagstaff on 24 Mar 2006 Despite the icy temperatures and harsh wind conditions, the first open event on the Fireball calendar at Chew Valley Lake Sailing Club still managed to attract 25 eager competitors.

Race one saw a keen start line and a strong first beat. First round the mark were Davies and Cadwallider, closely followed by Burge on his debut Fireball event. However, he was soon to discover that too much kicker on a two-sail reach quickly results in a swim. Managing to fight back to third by the finish, Burge and Wagstaff had a post-race promotion to second with Davies’ OCS, which also meant Hope and Thorne were ultimately the winners.

Kicker adjusted, Burge and Wagstaff went on to win race two with race orders determined by those able to keep out of the water or perfect their recovery from a capsize. Race three honours were taken by Davies and Cadwallider.

Weather conditions on day two looked destined to be as tough as day one for the aching fleet, but in the end conditions eased and improved throughout the morning. The next three races were hotly contested by the same front runners, leaving all the day one race winners with two wins under their belts.

Also in the mix were Penny and Ian Gibbs and Chandler and Scott, both teams putting in good challenges in spite of the gruelling conditions. However, once all the points were counted Burge and Wagstaff took home the trophy (or at least they will once Vince Horey decides to return it!).

This was a great first event of the season and one that won’t be easily forgotten by all those who took part.

Typhoon Open Results:
1st – Matt Burge & Richard Wagstaff
2nd – Kevin Hope & Russell Thorne
3rd – Malcolm Davies & Ian Cadwallider

Class website: http://www.fireball-dinghy.org.uk