The first event of the RS200 South West Open series (‘SW Ugly Tour’) was held at Bristol Corinthian YC, last Saturday.
Three boats from Chew made the trip, a bit down on last year due mainly to the forecast of little wind, which turned out not far off the mark.
A fleet of 28 boats took to the water, but in light and very patchy conditions the race officer only managed 2 of the 4 scheduled races with a rather extended lunch/afternoon tea break in-between.
The Chew contingent had a good regatta overall. Nick Martindale/Lydie James won the first race after catching the early breeze, followed by 5th in the second to secure 3rd place overall. Dave and Jeannie Oakey took 5th in the first race after inspired manoeuvres downwind to overtake half the fleet, and 10th in the second, thereby winning Silver fleet with 6th place overall. Dave Sweet/Karen Smalley enjoyed the close racing in tricky conditions mid-fleet.
Next event is Parkstone YC on 18th May with the promise that last year’s complimentary tea/bacon bap on arrival and beer/burger on coming ashore will be repeated! Full fixture list is at:
http://uk.rs200sailing.org/index.asp?selection=Events&Fleet=RS200
Any 200s thinking of attending for the first time and want advice just catch myself or any of the regulars, we’ll be happy to help.
Nick Martindale (RS200 No.848)
24 April 2013