Summer Series: Race 2 Race Report by Charlie Mavor

Sailing at Needs Ore Point can be a bit daunting, especially if it is a blustery old day with alarming gusts; but throw a ‘first time race’ into the mix and it takes quite a bit of courage and nerve to get out on the water and compete. Hats off to Charlie and his mother Amelia Mavor who did just that.

Race Report – Charlie Mavor

It was a windy day down at Needs Ore, blowing at around 15 knots. As it was our first race down at Needs Ore, we were unsure whether a windy race was a good one to start off with. Some boats chose to reef in the blustery conditions and we decided to follow suit and have a go despite the conditions. As newbies to the pitfalls of BRSC racing, we were very kindly shown how to reef by Peter Hayward-Broomfield. 

It was a simple start, beating up the river against the strong tide. As the race progressed, the fleet became more spread and we slowly grew oblivious to what was happening ahead of us (so apologies that we can’t provide commentary on the experience of other participants!). We were the last to round the first buoy, but were pursued by a very quick laser that also seemed to follow the same course. (Alexander Duncan).

 As we sailed up the river, the wind turned very flukey and the fleet became more dispersed. When we rounded the top mark, we tacked around and then ran back down to Needs Ore, steadily falling behind. There were reports of a seal from Peter. 

As we headed out along the channel to the penultimate marker, the wind grew gradually stronger and many boats were tilting at alarming angles. We kept the buoy to port and then headed back up the river. By this time, people had started finishing and we were passed by people on their way to lunch at the Scrimgeours. However, despite running last this whole time so far, Tim was having difficulties in front of us and so we slowly drew closer to him. 

As we approached the final buoy, the majority of people had finished, with Edward and Victoria having come in first, and Elizabeth and James a VERY close second. We overtook Tim as he was stuck in irons around the buoy. 

We crossed the finish line 9th out of 10 competitors. It had been an enjoyable race, with moments of drama but a good sail overall and a great one to start off with. Many thanks to Andrew Duncan, Peter Bettridge and Rupert Scott for ensuring a smooth race.

  Charlie Mavor

Some drove while a few of us sailed over to Rive Gauche where we were warmly welcomed by the Scrimgeours and treated to a delicious lunch.  Merci bien Benji et Christian.  

Race 3 –   Saturday, 8th July       15.30    HT 16.17

Briefing  15.00

Starting Platform                        Frank McGinn

Race Officer                               Victoria Bonham Carter

Safety Boat Driver                   Mary Montagu-Scott

Safety Boat Crew                        Keith Hutton

Shore Support                             Peter Bettridge

Tea                                             Kindly hosted by John & Carol Hackman                                                                          RSVP !! carol@hackmanoffice.com

Race 4      * The Gravelly Race *      Sunday, 16th July                                                                         

 10.30      HT 11.04

Very much look forward to seeing some of you on Saturday.

Yours aye,