RC Laser Northern District TT at Fleetwood Model Yacht Club
by Tony Wilson 17 Sep 2022 13:11 PDT
10 September 2022
RC Laser Northern District TT at Fleetwood © Paul Fishwick
Saturday, although great for some, caused a little confusion to others, as we were missing a handful of the regulars. Three apologies at least came a day or two later as Skippers had suddenly realised the day had passed.
A North-ish direction was forecast, so it was looking like not a great day to have been missed anyway. Shaun was out practising with the second size sail, while Tony went big from the start expecting lulls and pockets on the water.
A minute silence at approximately 11:00 before racing started as recommended by the MYA for Her Majesty and it was an Easterly doable race course that had been set. A mid lake Start, then up to the Pump station, across to just under the bridge spreader. Then down the lake to the lollipop mark and finish between the two first marks under the bridge, all taken to starboard.
All four boats were on 'A' sail except now Robert. Rob was in the lead until the first mark. A visual problem led him to miss the mark only to be overtaken by Eric. Tony now missed the mark and slammed into Eric on returning and for a penalty turn as well. Eric although unhindered, then raced ahead of the rest of the pack to the leeward mark only to stall and park in irons.Tony and Shaun now overtook Rob for a close finish, causing Rob to up sail size for the next race.
The racing was looking good and there were no flat spots as expected. After a brief discussion between Rob and Tony about a Spec savers visit, we were off to the next race and walking back up to the top. Race 2 and 3 both went to Rob. Race 4 was won by Tony again, while Shaun must have been having a slow start and even with a stalled boat on one race.
The rest of the races all then went to Shaun except the last one. Tony was pipped by a couple of points to Rob, but a fairly even and good day was had. Eric had not too great a day, while usually poised and well ready at the start line, had a few reversing issues that he preferred to forget.
Thanks to Trevor for scoring and keeping the start line in order.
HM Queen Elizabeth never to be forgotten. God save the King.
Results:
1 Shaun Holbeche 14 pts
2 Rob Wheeler 20 pts
3 Tony Wilson 22 pts
4 Eric Austwick 36 pts