The Osprey travelling circus arrived at Weymouth Sailing Club for their 60th Anniversary National Championships and were greeted with 15-20 knots of breeze and glorious sunshine from the south east providing champagne sailing conditions for the the 39 teams entered.
Race 1 one was under way at the first attempt with Andy Barker and Peter Greig leading the fleet up the left hand side of the beat to round first followed by Tim Rush and Sam Pascoe with Phil Meakins and Richard Anderton in 3rd place. Barker extended his lead to a comfortable win with Meakins pulling through to second and Rush coming home 3rd.
Race Officer Adrian Patterson finally got the fleet away in race 2 on the black flag. Meakins rounded first with a comfortable lead from Rush with Martin Cooney and Peter Frith hot on their heels. Cooney had his sights set on the number one slot and started reeling in the leaders, finally taking the lead at the top of the 3rd beat.
Later ashore competitors enjoyed a free barbecue on the decking as part of the Commodore's Reception, accompanied by real ales from our generous sponsors Palmers Brewery.
It was Weymouth Bay at its best - sunshine, waves & breeze. Let's hope for more of the same tomorrow.
(photos by Simon Vines)
Submitted on 20th July 2013