Commodores Invitational Cup, RYS

Each year the Royal Yacht Squadron invites the Commodores of sailing clubs, along the south coast and beyond, to form a team for a friendly series of races. Here is a report on this years event from Angus Pollock:

A scratch crew of Mary Montagu-Scott, Andy Roberts, June Kirkman, Angus Pollock and Bella Ormerod, came together for the Commodore’s cup, racing against around a dozen clubs invited from the UK, hosted by the Royal Yacht Squadron.

Racing compromised of two days of six races each, with rectangular courses with use of a gate. Conditions were blowing approximately 26 knots just west of southerly, but luckily racing had been organised in Osborne Bay, which was relatively sheltered from too much of the infamous Solent chop.

The first day required the BRSC team to merge quickly into a racing crew on the J70s, with little experience on these boats between them. This unfortunately ended with some last place finishes after small mistakes led to large consequences in time.

The second day saw Mary join as helm, in addition to the already set roles of Andy as tactician and main trimmer, and Angus and Bella on the jib and spinnaker and June taking over pit. This day saw stronger conditions and a good few exciting broaches here and there, luckily sails, crew and boat remained safely intact, albeit a few marvellous bruises now appearing.

The final leg of the final race saw the boats close haul it back to Cowes from Osborne Bay, as conditions picked up to a 32 knot wind versus the Spring tide, proving rough conditions for the fleet. After sailing the boat at close to 90 degrees to the water for a good while, the whole fleet finally made it safely back to the sheltered haven of Cowes.

Race rankings improved slightly on the second day, but unfortunately not enough to bring the team out of last place. However, it was still an incredibly fun few days, great camaraderie between the boats and with a lot of really useful experience gained. Very many thanks to the RYS for being excellent hosts and also to Andy Roberts for bringing his boat over from Lymington for accommodation.

Angus Pollock