7 July 2007

The weather had been improving as the end of Wimbledon fortnight was approaching and on Saturday 7th July the sun came out to greet the ten competitors. However, the wind only slightly abated producing some blustery and shifting conditions. For those that revelled in these conditions there were some challenging beats, fast reaches and tactical jibing on the downward legs.

In race one Ian Bradley of Ouse Amateur SC, who is going even faster with his new boat this year, led the fleet with Jonny Shuster of Deben close behind. Graham Nelson, Ouse Amateur SC, also with a new boat, headed the chasing group. This order was maintained until the finish of the race.

Race two, the first two positions were reversed with Jonny keeping Ian at bay, with Graham finishing third. Cathie Shuster, Deben SC, consistently sailing well claimed her second fourth position. During race three Dave Shuster enjoyed some screaming reaches which enabled him to gain a third place. The first and second positions were contested by Ian and Jonny with Ian coming out on top and Alan Simmons, Lancing SC coming fourth.

For the last race there were fewer starters but the top overall position was still ‘up for grabs’ if Jonny could win. It was not to be and Ian led at the first lap and could not be overtaken. There was no less an intense scrap with the following three boats until Bill Strange, Stewartby WSC capsized and allowed Graham through to just pip Alan Simmons on the beat to the finish line.

The best of the Stewartby sailors was John Simmons, with his best performance, sixth place in race one, supported by Peter Thornley, Peter Billington and Bill Strange. Stewartby is a fair expanse of water which could easily accommodate many more Streakers. Those that did come enjoyed some well set courses with some slick race management.

Bill Strange

*Overall Results:*

Pos Sail No Helm Club Pts
1st 1619 Ian Bradley Ouse Amateur 3
2nd 176 Jonny Shuster Deben 5
3rd 1541 Graham Nelson Ouse Amateur 9
4th 1567 Alan Simmons Lancing 13
5th 1591 Cathie Shuster Deben 14