GP14 Northern Bell and Midland Bell at Budworth Sailing Club

Main Fleet start - GP14 Northern Bell and Midland Bell at Budworth © Paul Donnely

The GP14 Open at Budworth proved, once again, to be a memorable day with 31 boats entered, an ideal force 3 westerly down the Mere and sailors of all ages and ability taking part. This year the event combined competitors from the Midland and Northern areas of the country, helping it to become one of the biggest GP14 events of the year.

To increase participation and encourage the less experienced sailors, a Regatta Fleet was created with the aim of making their first open a less daunting experience. This innovation involved starting them 2 minutes after the main fleet, with help from additional RIB support.

The course set by PRO Jon Chapman was just perfect with a long beat up the length of the Mere and four of the other legs providing opportunities for spinnaker flying - including two gybe marks. Definitely a course to test GP14 team work and crew stamina.

Race 1

Just before Race 1 the wind picked up, one boat capsized and it certainly felt like some serious racing was in store... The Main fleet was perhaps a little over-enthusiastic as two general recalls were needed before we could get going!

The tightly packed Main Feet headed up the Mere, followed 2 minutes later by an equally enthusiastic Regatta Fleet. Calls of 'starboard' could frequently be heard across the water as boats crossed with inches to spare. The Main Fleet did not spread out as much as expected, making the top mark an exercise in remembering the rule book.

First to round the buoy was Martin and Simon Joesbury closely followed by Mark Platt and Chris Jobson. The downwind legs continued with close sailing and boats changing places - especially at the gybe marks. By the third lap, Finley Waterhouse and Matthew Baird had pulled away from everyone and comfortably gained their first win, followed by Bill Kenyon and Tristan Shaw second with Mark Platt and Chris Jobson third.

After nearly 90 minutes of close non-stop sailing it was certainly time for a well organised lunch from the galley.

Spinnaker skills under test - GP14 Northern Bell and Midland Bell at Budworth - photo © Paul Donnely

Race 2

Minutes before the start of Race 2 there was a change in the wind. Instantly spotted by the PRO. The postponement flag was hoisted, buoys adjusted and, when it stabilised, we were ready. Once again a general recall was needed prompting toe PRO to hoist the U flag and prevent any further.

The Main Fleet, now familiar with the course, continued with close racing and again the downwind legs proved critical to keeping ahead. Leading the way at the end were Russ and Ali Cormack who crossed the line first. Simon and Roseanna Joyce came second with Mark Platt and Chris Jobson coming third.

Close competition across the Main Fleet - GP14 Northern Bell and Midland Bell at Budworth - photo © Paul Donnely

Race 3

Back to back after Race 2 the fleet set off - this time with a clean start. Once again Finley and Matthew demonstrated skilled and tactical sailing, managing the shifting conditions to gain yet another first place. Russ and Ali came second and Mark and Chris third.

The Regatta Fleet sailing was close in all three races and proved a real success.

Clearly ahead of the pack were Hugh Smallman and Jo Howell who were awarded the Bronze fleet trophy.

Demonstrating consistent sailing and great team work were Simon and Savannah Henshall who won the Silver fleet trophy. They were also lucky enough to be 13th overall and win two sailing watches thanks to sponsor Marine13.com (Dave Harvey).

Spinnaker skills under test - GP14 Northern Bell and Midland Bell at Budworth - photo © Paul Donnely

Third place overall for the day were Mark Platt and Chris Jobson. Second overall were Russ and Ali Cormack with their distinctive pink spinnaker featuring strongly at the head of the fleet. Awarded first overall for the event were Finley Waterhouse and Matthew Baird who were also awarded the Junior Prize. I'm certain we'll be seeing more of this duo at the top end of future events.

Overall, what struck me most of all across the days sailing was the enthusiasm throughout the entire range of sailors taking part and the good spirit of all concerned (no protest committee needed). Thanks to Marine 13, Pinnell & Bax and Rooster for supporting what was a great day sailing at Budworth Sailing Club.

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Overall Results: