Report - Neil Davies

A cold northerly breeze force 2-3 greeted the 24 boats for the Chase GP14 Open meeting, the fourth in the Midland Bell Series.

The first race got underway after a General Recall. The wind was variable in strength and direction. Richard Instone crewed by Linda Estaugh made the best of the conditions to overhaul early leaders Silver Fleet sailors David Mitchell and Matt Birks. Justin Jones and Liz Pugh finished 3rd.

The second race was sailed for most part in a hail storm which left a good covering of ice on the boats making tacking a tricky manoeuvre. A significant wind shift also rendered the triangular course redundant. Race Officer Tony Cole wisely shortened the race, which was led from start to finish by Luke Shaw and Steve Parker. Carl Jeffs and Jim Toothill took 2nd ahead of Andy Hateley and Frank Nickless.

Going into the final race any one of six crews could have won the event. On the second lap Richard Instone took a flyer on the right hand side of the course which paid handsomely, this gave him 2nd place behind Justin and Liz which was enough to secure the event. Pete Jacques and Pete Tate were 3rd.

The Silver Fleet was won by David Mitchell and Matt Birks from Nantwich S.C. with the Bronze prize going to Cath Grove and Rob Slack from Chase.

Thanks must go to Richard Estaugh of Speed Sails who donated some great prizes for the winners.

Overall Results: