Ranelagh Open

[MikeDay]

The next Thames Area meeting is at Ranelagh on Sunday 5th July.  As is usual, there will be just one long race on the Tideway for Ranelagh's wonderful Silver National trophy.  This was first raced in 1937 and carries the names of many illustrious (and one or two less so!) Twelve sailors.
 
The race is scheduled for 1230 and the start there is always prompt.  If the wind is light, you'll have a rare opportunity to demonstrate your kedging skills until the tide turns after 2pm.
 
It would be great to have a good turn-out for this event, which is always interesting and it will help ensure that we don't lose the opportunity to sail at this famous old river club in the future.
 
Mike D
N3496

[MikeDay]

Change of title to thread - due to possible surprise guest appearance by Nigel Playford if we can find a lightish crew for him quickly.  Any takers?  Please post here or text / phone Nigel on 07775 505499 
 
Mike D
N3496 

[MikeDay]

A small but distinguished fleet of six took to the Tideway on Sunday to do battle for the ancient silver National trophy, including Nigel Playford, visiting from the Beijing YC.  In typical Ranelagh conditions - a strong tide and sharply oscillating wind - all the boats bar one led at various times during the first lap.  The exception was John and Mandy Thornton who spent the early part of the race sorting out a failing jib halyard block.  By halfway through the second lap, Jon Ibbotson and Helen Hilditch established enough of a lead to stay clear of the constant place-changing behind them and they went on to win from John and Mandy who eventually hauled themselves through the fleet to second.
 
Thanks very much from all of us there to Chis Edwards, John Stokes and everyone at Ranelgh for a highly enjoyable race.
 
Mike D
N3496