International Canoe open meeting at Castle Cove Sailing Club

International Canoes at Castle Cove © Richard Bowers

The weather forecast before the event made it clear that the International Canoe open meeting was going to be challenging for the organisers and competitors. With gusts of 45 knots it was decided to cancel the racing on Saturday. The condition on Sunday were still a challenge but it was decided to try four races in one day.

Ten boats started the first race but only six finished. After an early lead, current World Champion, Robin Wood capsized and had a long swim to catch up with his boat. Chris Hampe took advantage and lead until the last weather mark where he also capsized allowing local sailor Mike Fenwick to take line honours. Chris held onto second with Robin recovering to third.

A reduced fleet started race 2 and shortly after the start Chris Hampe was forced to retire after hitting a jellyfish. Robin Wood had already succumbed to the cold and had retired leaving Mike Fenwick fighting with Glen Truswell. New to the fleet, and only on his third day of sailing an International Canoe, Glen sailed impressively to win the second race ahead of Mike with Martin Rob, in third.

By the start of the third race the fleet had been reduced to three boats. Racing was close with Glen again finishing ahead of Mike and Martin.

International Canoes at Castle Cove - photo © Richard Bowers

The wind began to abate and swing through large shifts, Martin Rob made the best of the conditions to take an early lead in the final race. By the end of the race however, the new rules boats had both overhauled Martin's Nethercott with Mike finishing in first place, Glen second and Martin third.

With all four race results to count the overall winner was Mike Fenwick, Martin Rob second and Glen Truswell third.

Massive thanks to Castle Cove sailing club for organising a fantastic event with special mention for members Rob and Sandra Smith who lead the organisation and also Commodore Neil Stroud and Leah Stroud for organising the catering and refreshments during the event.

Overall Results:

International Canoes at Castle Cove - photo © Sandra Smith