National 12s @ Middle Nene

Ten visiting boats journeyed through mist and drizzle on a windless morning to race in the annual Guy Fawkes Trophy at Middle Nene S.C, Thrapston on November 7th. They were supported by 5 boats from the home club, comprising virtually the whole of the MNCC N12 fleet. Fortunately the water was weed-free this year and a light South to SW breeze appeared which was sufficient to keep the boats moving.

The first 2 races were sailed 'back-to back' before lunch. In the first race Tom Stewart and Rachel Wilkinson (N 3476) led Caroline Martin and Sue May (N 3455) home with Graham Camm and Zoe Ballantyne (N 3492) 3rd. Tables were turned in the second race, honours going to Caroline Martin, with Tom Stewart 2nd and John and Katy Meadowcroft (N3473) in 3rd place.After lunch the light wind had swung westerly for the 3rd race, with a change of course. Graham Camm came to the fore followed by Caroline Martin and Tom Stewart, with the Meadowcrofts in 4th place.

The points were so close that the trophy was decided by including the discard and went to Martin and May with 1 firsts, and 2 seconds, Second place went to Stewart and Wilkinson, with 1st, 2nd and 3rd leaving Camm and Ballantyne in 3rd place.
The old Avon Bailer trophy for the first non self-draining boat went to Gerald Copsey, crewed by sons Nicholas and Anthony in N3184, who finished in 7th place.

Laurie Jones, N2701

Results

1. N3455 Caroline Martin & Sue May, Burghfield SC

2. N3476 Tom Stewart & Rachel Wilkinson, Royal Harwich YC

3. N3492 Graham Camm & Zoe Ballantyne, Burghfield SC