The forecast for the third Sunday of racing at the Warsash Spring Series, at the middle of the previous week showed heavy rain and strong winds and there were some who hoped that the challenge of the clocks going back may not have to be faced. However, Sunday provided an excellent day of sailing, with South Westerly winds in the 9 to 14 knots with gusts of 20 knots.
The J/109 fleet despite watching Class 2 have a general recall were still “enthusiastic” and the start was subject to individual recall. Both J-Dream (David & Kirsty Apthorp) and Just So (David & Mary McGough) had to return to restart. At the first windward mark,Jeez Louise (Jamie Arnell) had taken the lead and rounded ahead of Offbeat (David McLeman). A moderately tight reach to North Ride Middle saw Jeez Louise hold off the advances of Offbeat and gybe to head back to the mainland shore, whilst J-Dream continued down Ryde Bank hoping to gain a few inches from the slightly weaker tide and narrower crossing back to the laid mark. The second part of the run saw the wind increase and Offbeat suffered from gear malfunction as they changed their headsail and had to retire.
Meanwhile J-Dream and Jambhala (Richard Sainsbury & Gillian Ross) had closed the gap to Jeez Louise. A short beat saw Just So pass Jambhala before they took the lead on the run, as they took advantage of the luffing match between Jeez Louise and J-Dream. The 2 mile beat to South Bramble saw Jeez Louise, J-Dream and Just So play snakes and ladders, before a final run and beat to the finish at East Knoll saw J-Dream claim her second win of the series.
A break for Easter before the battle recommences as the top three boats are only split by 10 points. The J/109 Class will also be racing at the Warsash Spring Championships 17/18 April and 24/25 April. (Thanks to the J/109 UK Class Association for this report.)
Results:
1st – J-Dream (David & Kirsty Apthorp)
2nd – Jeez Louise (Jamie Arnell)
3rd – Just So (David & Mary McGough)
