Chipstead SC Open

Race 1 – Pleasant force 2-3. Very close racing between 3143 (Tigress) Matt and Joe Stiles, 3496 (Numinous) Mike Day and Anne Murch and 3280 (Final Chapter) Richard and Emma Ball. Places changed continuously with Matt’s better pointing ability allowing him to pull away into a lead he held to the finish. Mike and Anne looked good for second, however, a storming last beat allowed Richard and Emma to pip Mike on the line for second. Fourth home was Peter Flory sailing a boat borrowed from Bob Murrell (3435 Feeling Foolish).

Race 2 – Followed a similar pattern with the same leading boats all line abreast on the first 2 runs. Unfortunately Mike and Anne suffered a main halyard failure which put an end to their race. Matt won with Richard second and Peter third.

Race 3 – Having won the event Matt and Joe were looking for a clean sweep of firsts and Mike needed to win to take second overall. Again the racing was close at the front with lots of place changing. It was looking good for Mike and Anne as the wind increased slightly they pulled out what looked to be a comfortable lead. Unfortunately the wind dropped on the last beat which allowed Matt to sneak past and claim a clean sweep of firsts. This meant that Richard and Emma just pipped Mike and Anne for second overall.

A great day was had by all, Peter sailing a 12 for the first time is hopefully a potential new recruit for the Chipstead Fleet.