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South Cerney Open meetingThe first N12 event to be held at South Cerney attracted nine boats
with 8 different designs showing how the Class has developed from lovely
clinker built, through cold moulded and the latest glass / carbon boats.
The briefing was held in almost nil wind but then as boats got rigged and out on the water a pleasant breeze filled in from the south. The wind and sunshine improved throughout the day and provided ideal conditions for the fleet. Close racing was in evidence during all the races and mark rounding with several boats abreast was a common sight. The first race got off to a clean start and the fleet found the changing shifts up the first beat quite challenging. Places changed between a small pack that managed to break slightly ahead but in the end Matt Stiles in his Tigress pulled out quite a lead over the more following pack. Ian Cook who has recently returned to 12 sailing managed a creditable 2nd with a new crew. After an enjoyable lunch in the sunshine and several visitors that
had come along to admire / enquire about the 12s the fleet went back on
the water for the final 2 races. Race 2 again got cleanly away and a
similar pattern evolved with a leading group of 4-5 boats battling it
out and once again Matt managed to claw through to a win.
Race 3 saw some over eager starters and recalls - this gave an opportunity for the oldest boat in the fleet, a beautifully restored Chimp design built in 1959, to lead the fleet for the first couple of marks. The fleet order changed around as Matt had to go go from almost last in the fleet and pulled through to 4th. David Wilkins stamped some authority on the race with a good lead and again the chasing packs had many close calls at the marks. Prizes were given to the first 3 overall with Matt also picking up the Admirals Cup prize (as well as overall winner). Brian Kitching won the Vintage section - makes all that varnishing worthwhile. Special mention to Alex and daughter Martha who trailed in last each race for their first open but are keen to improve in future events.
Results
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