National 12 open meeting at Ripon SC

by Jennie Clark on 4 Oct 2011 The National Twelves held an open meeting at Ripon Sailing Club in which the fleet were able to enjoy unseasonably hot weather on 1 October. With a light breeze filling in just before the start the RO, Chris Mark, was able to set a course with a good long first beat which gave the fleet chance to make the most of the conditions.

Tom and Isobel Stewart were challenged hard by Philip David and Kate McInnes throughout the first race but the Stewarts managed to get clear to take the race. Bernard and Ellie Clark were third, with another home boat, that of Ed and Tom Storey, in fourth.

The breeze picked up, as forecast, throughout the day and the afternoon race saw Tom, now crewed by son Robert, take line honours again but David/McInnes were hard on their heels (and in front of them at times) which made for great spectating. Clark and Clark battled for third place with Mark and Emma Simpson, with the Simpsons gaining advantage and finishing ahead.

The final race saw the Clarks lead until the last 15 minutes of the race when the wind filled in behind to allow the chasing pack of the Stewarts, David/Mcinnes and the Simpsons catch up with them and overhaul them in the final minutes of the race.

An evening BBQ party saw the majority of the fleet making the most of the sunshine, even if it was dark by 7.30pm!

1st Tom and Isobel/Robert Stewart, Northampton SC
2nd Philip David/Kate McInnes, Yorkshire Ouse and Yeadon SC’s
3rd Mark and Emma Simpson, Scaling Dam SC
4th Bernard and Ellie Clark, Ripon SC (1st Admirals Cup Boat)
5th Vincent and Alexander Phillips, Yorkshire Ouse SC (1st Vintage Boat)
6th Ed and Tom Storey, Ripon SC