2023 Dinghy Regatta Report
The dinghy section held their annual regatta over the August bank holiday, with the Catapult fleet joining us as usual for the Northern Catapult National Championships. A fleet of six Catapults combined with our Dart 18s and Hurricane 5.9s, creating a lively 20-boat racecourse.
Saturday began with light, fluky winds that eventually built into a steady sea breeze. Racing commenced after a short postponement to allow the breeze to settle. The Catapults led the fleet around a square course, followed by the Darts and then the Hurricanes.
In the Dart 18s, Mat Exon and Mark Stones dominated race 1, followed by Team Franks, with Billy Christie and Alyesha Monkman taking third. Race 2 saw Exon/Stones in first place again, Team Franks in second, and Mick Singleton with Livvy Barrett in third.
The Hurricane fleet was led by Mike Abbey and Harry Pickering, who won both races on Saturday, closely followed by Kev Porter and Ellis Stonehouse, who secured two second-place finishes. This left both local fleets neck and neck overnight.
Saturday evening featured a fish and chip supper enjoyed by all, accompanied by a few beers.
Sunday morning brought a distinct lack of wind, and unfortunately, this calm persisted throughout the day, resulting in no racing.
Monday appeared more promising, and race 3 got underway. In the Dart 18s, Duncan Baines took an early lead and seemed uncatchable, but Exon/Stones and Team Franks managed to reel him in. With the fleet bunched up, Team Franks tacked off on a significant shift, gaining a full-leg lead which they held to the finish. Exon/Stones clawed their way back to second place, with Christie/Monkman finishing third.
In the Hurricanes, Kev Porter showcased his experience by winning over Abbey/Pickering.
Unfortunately, the wind disappeared again after race 3, bringing the regatta to an early close. Despite the limited racing, the results were close, and everyone enjoyed a brilliant weekend. Here's hoping for more races and better conditions next year!
Last updated 3:33pm on 8 July 2024
