K6 Season Opener at Oxford Sailing Club

K6s at Oxford Sailing Club © K6 Class

The forecasts were right, overcast and very light winds faced the K6 fleet for the season opener at Oxford Sailing Club. Seven K6s lined up for the event, including three home boats. The weather may have been gentle but the racing was typically close.

The event was divided between into Saturday, with on and off the water coaching, a timely reminder of set-up and light wind techniques, expertly provided by Dave Hall and Neil Fulcher, and on the Sunday a three race series, each of four laps.

Race one, lap one saw local boat of Grant Blake and Martin Gibson, round the top mark some lengths clear of the chasing pack, maintaining their lead to the finish in front of a tight battle for second between Dave Hall/Paul Young and John Tabor/Dan Robins, with Dave/Paul crossing the line three boat lengths ahead.

Winds continued to be very light for the start of race two. John/Dan sailed the right side of the reservoir into a lead at the top mark, loosing out to Grant/Martin on the downwind with the two boats close for the remainder of the race. Metres from the line, John/Dan managed to gain enough speed to pip Grant/Martin on the line. Jon Van den Borght came home third ahead of Tim Williams/Bob Clements.

Race three saw the closest racing of the day with top three places changing on each leg between Grant/Martin, John/Dan and the hard charging Tim/Bob. Ultimately Grant/Martin opened a lead to record their second bullet, taking first overall. Tim/Bob sailed in second closely followed by John/Dan.

Laura, Anna and Fraser Elms completed the three races including some impromptu in race gymnastics from the members of the young crew who were clearly enjoying sailing with their Dad!

Thanks of course go to Dave and Neil for their training advice and to Race Officer Richard Hall and his efficient race team, who made sure racing was completed well before the wind eventually died away and the rain took over.

Enjoyable sailing showcasing the speed of the K6 in very light winds. Next up Hayling Island open 26/27 May. Read all about it at www.k6class.org and sign up now!

Overall Results: