Stokes Bay open meeting

Stokes Bay is a new venue for the National 12 fleet and conditions for the Gul Series event of 24 September did not disappoint.   A brisk Southerly breeze 20-24kts was made slightly less daunting by early sunshine, nonetheless a tough day was in prospect with Race Officer Mike Rayden promising a full programme of 4 races back to back. 
 
The Southerly breeze and East going tide combined to produce a bumpy race track, putting a premium on boat handling and steering, especially to avoid the infamous Stokes Bay chasms downwind.  The conditions suited the Dead Cat Bounce designs which took the first three places. 
 
In the first race Graham Camm and Zoe Ballantine sailing Hungry Caterpillar led throughout from Kevin Isles who with star crew Andrea Downham finished second.  Jeremy and Luke Hartley failed to capitalise on home advantage and placed third.  This pattern was duplicated in the second race, and followed through most of race 3 until on the last leg the Hartleys managed to find their downwind gear, finishing a close second to Graham and Zoe.  Whilst the Dead Cats fought amongst themselves, Nigel and Chis White vied with daughter Rosie crewed by Nick Copsey, taking turns to finish 4th and 5th in successive races.
 
Slick race management by Mike and his team enabled a quick turnaround between races and all four races were delivered as promised.  However the Hungry Caterpillar’s perfect score in the first three races enabled them to skip the final and head for an early shower.  Although conditions had moderated somewhat, after three tough races several others followed their lead.  Back on the race course the Hartleys had to win to take second overall, but their pre-start manoeuvres failed to gain the desired effect and it was Kevin and Andrea who took the final race.  Nigel and Chris finished third to clinch the White family contest, fourth place overall and first non-foiler.
 
Tired sailors were revived with tea and cakes in time for the prizegiving.  In addition to the overall winners, Gul prizes were awarded to the Whites and to Neal and Freya Lillywhite as leading Modern and Admirals Cup boats.
 
We look forward to another event at the Bay next year. 

Overall results