Results / GUL Grand Prix Gurnard SC - 01/09/2012

The strong home fleet was bolstered to 14 entrants for the inaugural Gurnard SC RS 100 open meeting. Entrants included Al Hall who left Netley early doors to sail across the Solent, and Greg Booth who had travelled from Conwy and left even earlier! In a change from the usual, the Saturday format comprised six 2-lap races with a target duration of 20 minutes for the leader, and three 45 minute races on Sunday. The Sunday races scored double points so that each day counted the same.

All six races on Saturday were sailed in wind speeds of 5 - 8 knots. Notably Al Hall went from hero to zero by winning the first but coming last in the second after snaring the Committee Boat. Huw Powell won 4 races with Clive Eplett winning Race 4 and showing great speed to also bag a couple of 2nds. Home grown talent Mark Harrison and Giles Peckham both scored a bunch of 2nds and 3rds to lead the Gurnard challenge and keep them in the hunt.

Sunday races were held along the coast in Thorness Bay in breeze from 5 - 12 knots. Huw won all 3, with a notable change in pace from Greg in stronger pressure who was never outside the top 3. On both days, difficult decisions on tidal and wind priorities meant close racing throughout with almost every leg of every race leading to place changes and final positions not being decided until the last lap.

With 2 discards, Huw won from Mark and Clive representing a mix of home and away talent. The race format was a refreshing change and well executed - and should be considered again. Gurnard SC hosted an excellent event with club members providing accommodation, evening drinks and.... even local tidal secrets!

Huw Powell