The forecast for the day was for a fresh westerly breeze and a bit of sunshine, perfect for Blithfield.
Twenty-one competitors set out for the start of Race 1 which began almost on time after some quick mark and line moving as the breeze settled from south west to more of the forecast westerly direction. The race team set a course attempting to use every inch of sailable water on Blithfield.
Matt Thursfield led around the windward mark closely followed by Alex Reeve & Andy Flitcroft, the places stayed close on the first run but began to open out by the end of the second beat. By the end of the race Matt had built a comfortable lead to take the win followed by Alex & Andy into second and third places respectively.
The breeze built substantially through Race 1 causing some spectacular capsizes and leading to a few retirements.
The fleet retired for a super curry lunch prepared by our in-house chef!
The now reduced fleet had requested slightly shorter races for the afternoon so the race team obliged, dropping one windward leg from the course and adding an extra (hopefully) exciting reach.
Matt Thursfield took the win in Race 2 followed again by Alex & Andy meaning Matt had the meeting sewn up but the battle for second was still to play for.
Race 3 started in less wind and Matt became buried in the pack. Andy led around the windward mark, closely followed by Alex and these 2 boats extended away in their own private battle followed by Blithfield’s own Julian Basset in a comfortable 3rd place. The race finished with Andy taking the win meaning that Alex finished with three 2nd places but came 3rd!!
This left the final standings as: –
1st Matt Thursfield
2nd Andy Flitcroft
3rd Alex Reeve
4th Julian Basset (1st Blithfield Boat)
Additional prizes were kindly sponsored by Hartley boats. Following an exciting day winner Matt Thursfield thanked the Blithfield team for their fantastic hospitality, great courses, and warm and friendly welcome, both on and offshore.