Here is the report from Dave Allinson who did a magnificent job running the day on his own.
Chipstead SC IOM Wednesday Open Meeting 25th May 2022
Thirteen sailors arrived at Chipstead SC on a bright breezy Wednesday morning to contest Chipstead Sailing Club – Radio Sailing midweek IOM Open Meeting. Visitors had travelled from Gosport, Huntingdon, Emsworth and Chelmsford to join the some of the home club IOM sailors.
The breeze was South Westerly and right on the borderline between No1 and No 2 rigs, although the gusts exceeded that status.
Whilst many sailors rigged in the comfort of the large clubhouse, the PRO laid a 150-metre windward leeward course.
Following the briefing, racing commenced just after 10:00am with a mix of the two rig options. Everyone was keen to race which resulted in a general recall. The race got underway at the second attempt, with local sailor David Marten (No2 rig) jumping out into a lead he would not relinquish. He was chased round the course by James Hadden (No1 rig) and Peter Crisp (No2 rig). David Green came home in fourth also running a No1 rig. Race two was won by Mike Brand (No2 rig) followed by Peter, James and David Green. The breeze had increased as the race progressed, so the rig choice dilemma was now resolved and the rig No1 sailors all changed down to rig No2.
Following the brief gap for the rig change, racing restarted with wins going to David Green, James and Peter Crisp. Lower order places were filled by Nigel Barrow, Roy O’Donnell and Martin Wilson. Other notable places went to 90-year-old George Startup who achieved fourth places in races six and eight. In total, eight races were run during the morning with the lunch break being taken just after 12:30hrs. It was a good morning’s sailing, with only one boat requiring rescue.
All sailors adjourned to the clubhouse where Peter Crisp served some delicious sandwiches along with a cup of tea or coffee.
Race results were entered during the break and published for all to see.
Joint leaders were James Hadden and David Green on 14 points. Nigel Barrow was not far behind on 21 points.
Also having a good battle were Emsworth sailors Martin Wilson and Steve Cockerill as they were tied on 33 points.
Peter Crisp had also put up a creditable run of results in the morning, but it sadly ended just before lunch with boat issues.
All to play for after lunch for these sailors.
Racing recommenced at 13:40 hrs with three sailors changing up to rig-1. This was a brave and challenging move as the gusts were comfortably in the nose-diving range. Nigel was quick to take race 9, followed by James and David Green.
Race ten saw the same three sailors but in reverse order take the places. The three rig No1 sailors all changed back to No2 rig for race eleven. Consistent results were now being achieved by David Green, James and Nigel with notable places also going to Martin Wilson and Mike Brand. George achieved another fourth place in race 14.
The Emworth duo of Martin and Steve continued their battle, with Martin getting into a great run of results from race 11 onwards.
The final race (15) commenced just before 15:25 hrs. Quick out of the start line was Martin who sailed to take his first win of the day. He was followed home by Nigel and David Green.
Sailing came to an end around 15:40 hrs after fifteen races had been sailed. Sailors packed away their boats and sails and adjourned to the clubhouse for a welcome hot drink and cake whilst results were being calculated.
Once again Chipstead had provided some great sailing in a good breeze with close racing and a result which was only decided on count back.
PRO and club radio lead Dave Allinson presented the prizes down to sixth place with a bottle of wine,
Sixth Place & First Chipstead Sailor – Roy O’Donnell.
Fifth place – Steve Cockerill (Kantun)
Fourth place – Martin Wilson (Kantun)
Third place – James Hadden (Britpop)
Second place – Nigel Barrow (Britpop
First Place – David Green (Britpop)
(Full results are listed below)
David Green thanked Chipstead SC for hosting a great day’s sailing praising the club facilities, the buffet lunch and the tea and cake post racing. The PRO wrapped up the event, once again thanking all the sailors and wishing everyone a safe journey home.
Then next Chipstead IOM Open Event is on 20th November 2022 and is the final round of the Met & Southern Championship
Results for the Chipstead Sailing Club – Radio Sailing IOM Open Meeting
Dave Allinson
PRO & Chipstead SC – Radio Lead
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