IOM Mid Week Handicap

Although the sun was shining fully it was a very cool day for IOM handicap racing at Risdon Brook Dam. Although the temperature did apparently make it to 12 degrees there was a severe wind chill factor which made it seem much colder. The cool North Wester of about 15 knots (perhaps more in the gusts) which caused the chilly conditions did however lend itself to great sailing. 
After a good amount of discussion the skippers unanimously opted for the B rig which proved suitable for the gusts and we all kept with that rig throughout the day.
We had decided to use a rotating PRO for the day’s racing but John Cole-Cook turned up after the first two races and offered to do the job. It was a great offer particularly considering the conditions. Thanks for your work today John.
The close points table again reflected the closeness of the racing. Four skippers were within two points of taking third place overall. Ray Joyce managed to take that honour. Ray always does well in heavy conditions.
David Woolley took second spot after starting the day with back-to back wins in the first two races. And he very nearly made it a hat trick just giving away a third win in race three in the last metres to the finishing line. Great sailing today Sheep!
Speaking of back-to-back results Trout started the day with consecutive 6th places in the first four races and finished up with six 6ths overall. A couple of race wins though spoiled the consistency!
It was Ricky Price who won today’s event with plenty of the podium today. While one of Ricky’s races was a sail away victory mostly he showed awesome ability as a back-marker by making sure that he had attached himself to the fleet by the time we reached the final gate then making something of every race by striking on the final leg. Congratulations Ricky!

Coming up - A double header for Marbleheads!

Saturday: Southern State Regatta for Marbleheads at Risdon Brook Dam (10:15 briefing for a 10:30 button press) - only 5 entries so far. The event will be cancelled if we cannot get 6 entries by Friday afternoon

Sunday: John Emms Memorial Regatta for Marbleheads at Risdon Brook Dam  (10:15 briefing for a 10:30 button press) - 6 entries so far, so the event will be happening.
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Next Wednesday: More IOM handicap racing at Risdon Brook Dam (11:00 button Press)


 Shorty