Naburn Paddle open meeting
A small, but select bunch of boats sailed on the River Ouse for the 2010 Naburn Paddle, on the 12th & 13th June. On Saturday, the first race is traditionally a longer race for the Jubilee Cup, so most of the available river was used. The light wind was swinging through 180 degrees before the race so the starting direction was a bit of guesswork, but the OODs got it perfect and the fleet set off down river. In the narrows, Vince and Alexander Phillips (N2531) found the best wind and set off for a good lead down to the first mark, followed by Bernard & Ellie Clark (N2149). However, approaching the narrows on the way back upstream the whole fleet ran out of wind. Philip & Helen David (N2545) gambled and crossed the river and passed the leading boats to gain a slight lead as the fleet passed the clubhouse. This was short-lived as Vince & Alex passed them again when the wind went lighter and they held on to the finish.
Sunday dawned with rain and no wind, but as the fleet prepared to launch the rain ceased and a slight breeze appeared, but again from all directions. The OODs sensibly set a shorter course with a start line a little upstream of the club. Philip & Helen got a good lead straight off the start line and increased it throughout the race to win by a very clear margin. Vince & Daniel were second and Bernard & Ellie again third. The third race was held immediately and this time it was Bernard & Ellie who took the lead shortly after the start and went on to win easily. Philip & Helen were handicapped somewhat when they drifted onto the Club mark and were passed by nearly the whole fleet, before managing to find some wind again. Vince & Alex were second, with Brian Herring & Ros Stevenson (N2468) third.
After lunch the final race started with any of three boats in with a chance. Philip & Helen again took an early lead, but were caught mid-way through the race by Bernard & Ellie. Shortly before the end, Philip and Helen found some better wind to regain the lead which they held to the finish, just in time before the rain started again.
Overall results
1. Philip & Helen David (N2545) 3.5 points 2. Vince & Alex/Daniel Phillips (N2531) 4.75 points 3. Bernard & Ellie Clark (N2149) 5.75 points 4. Brian Herring & Ros Stevenson (N2468) 11 points 5. Tim Gatti & Caroline Clarke (N2255) 20 points
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