Bewl Valley Sailing Club Signet Open

SigneTs and Fleetwinds gathered for their annual Bank Holiday Meeting at Bewl, with moderate winds and long runs allowing good opportunities for spinnakers to be flown to full advantage. In race one, even after an hour and a quarter, less than a leg separated the first ten. Richard Cannon won from Madeleine Hatton, Laurie Bridges, Doug Baynton and John Tompkins. Lizzy Overs just beat Mike Baker into fifth position. Further down the field there was a close fight between Steve Leeding and Michael Overs. Graham Farley capsized drinking on the run! Bill Baynton brought up the rear.

Race two was extremely exciting. On lap one spinnaker flying was all important, Madeleine flying hers most impressively. Michael and Steve sailed through the middle of the fleet who became entangled on a mark, leading to a capsize for Lizzy. The fleet was close at the start of lap two, as Richard, Madeleine, Mike and Michael raised spinnakers. However, a fierce squall hit. Young helm Michael capsized first, twice in quick succession. Mike also went and Madeleine turned completely turtle. Many home boats capsized and rescue services were stretched. All the SigneTs and Fleetwinds made it home in one piece, although Michael and Madeleine were forced to retire on jib alone. Richard won from Doug, Laurie and Mike. Graham capsized on the line allowing Lizzy and John through. Race three was cancelled due to conditions. Results:

Overall Results:

1st  ST368 Richard Cannon and Robert Britton
2nd= ST856 Laurie Bridges and Claire Baldwin	
     FW405 Doug Baynton and Caroline Jackson
4th= ST690 Lizzy Overs and Pat Overs
     ST367 John Tompkins and Peter Cross
     ST369 Mike Baker and Abbie Baker

More Information:

• YachtsandYachting.com Signet Page
• UK Signet Class Association
• Bewl Valley Sailing Club