Highcliffe Sailing Club Spring Series - Day 3

Steve Waite and Pete Bell on day 3 of the Highcliffe Sea Spring Series © Stephanie McCormick

Walking back up the Run on day 3 of the Highcliffe Sea Spring Series © Stephanie McCormick

Sea Spring Series Races 5 & 6

What makes sailing interesting for our members? Knowing that Mother Nature is in the driving seat and she's making damn sure no 2 races are ever the same!

Recently we've battled with strong winds and rough seas, however, Sunday 13th April, Christchurch Bay was calm with beautiful, blue skies and light winds, perfect for racing – not quite!

Race 5

12 boats lined up for the 10.30 am start, the wind was a light 4 – 5 knot, North Westerly. A triangular course was set and the hooter sounded. Within minutes of starting it became clear that the wind was incredibly shifty, averaging 1 – 10 knots and veering 135 degrees. At times there was more drifting than sailing, with only the most experienced sailors making a gain.

Steve Waite, (Solo), was the leading boat throughout finishing first with Pete Bell, (Europe), close behind. Conditions were so difficult that only 4 boats were able to complete 1 lap and youngsters Jamie Perry and Josh McCormick lacked the patience to complete even 1 lap, receiving a DNF, risking their overall position in the series so far.

Race 6

Thankfully the wind filled in at the start of the second race, averaging 5 – 10 knots the start line had a little more gusto with both Steve Waite and Pete Bell quickly leaving the pack standing. This time the race officer was able to run a full 3 laps with every competitor finishing.

First to finish Steve Waite, (Solo), second John Phelps (Laser Standard), and third Pete Bell (Europe).

The challenge was not yet over,however, as the sailors still needed to make their way up the infamous 'Run' and back into Mudeford Harbour. This can be tricky for some on any day and just as the first few boats entered the Run, the wind dropped, and the sailors were left battling the outgoing tide with no wind. Luckily Mudeford Sandbank is a stunning location and the views take the sting out of the indignity of walking your boat along the shore.

Sea Spring Series Results: (after race 6)

Harbour Spring Series Races 3 & 4

Race 3

3 Competitors entered the Harbour Race. Mark Sharman (Laser radial) completed the course 2 minutes ahead of Jonathon Parsons (Solo). Ian Pike and Sally Perry (Comet Duo), were not quite up to their previous form and came in 2 minutes later.

Race 4

Once again Mark Sharman was quickly well out in front. Ian Pike and Sally Perry were working hard and came in just a few seconds too late to miss first place.

Harbour Spring Series Results: (after race 4)