Volvo Noble Marine RS700 Nationals supported by Hyde Sails at Eastbourne Sovereign SC - Day 2

With 25kts screaming across the course the fleet gingerly ventured out for a planned two races on day two of the regatta. It was clear from the pre-start circus that it was going to be a challenging day!

The race started with 75% upright and the fleet charged up the first beat. Unfortunately the championship leader and class chairman Theo Galyer lost his mast by meditating after the start. This providing an added incentive to the chasing pack. Robbie Bell was fastest despite nursing a tack bar that has come out on one side! Matt Carter was second to the windward mark and Richard Wadsworth third. Richard hoisted when others didn't and sailed over Matt, who was feeling nervous after a pre-start pitch pole and was more cautious, and nearly caught Robbie who was also nervous on the hoist. Richard promptly swam in the gybe and lost his gains!

Robbie again flew upwind with Matt and Richard chasing. Colin Dacey and Jack Napolitano were steaming up to take advantage of any more spills. Matt spilt in on the final tack letting Richard through and was upright again to round just ahead of Colin. Robbie steamed downwind under one sail and survived with just three capsizes to remain in the lead until the finish. Richard kept second and Matt stayed ahead of the pack for third.

All the RS700s, except Theo, who had started finished in great shape and watched the carnage across the RS800 fleet who were keeping the eight ribs busy. So much so that the race officer canned the second race allowing the fleet to return for an early shower.

Results after Day 2: