Saturday had 12 starters for Round 1 of this years Summer IOM series with a few missing on Europeam Championship duty. Well done Graham Elliott on your 6th place!
The wind was out of the South south east with a healthy number of shifts to keep all on their toes in a light and puffy A rig breeze.
Brad hit the ground running with a number of firsts leading to tea break paused by wins each to John Brierly and Phyl Fanning. Phyl made the most from our slightly reduced course length designed to help and encourage new skippers as they build confidence in the fleet.
Paul Plested was showing his continued rise within the fleet with a solid set of scores, having a 4th as his worst. Martin, Andrea and visitor Simon Fairman each had moments in the at times difficult conditions.
With a pause for refreshments after race 6 allowing time for some re-tuning and gremlin sorting in the winch department for Martin and Robert we were back for another 5 races.
Wins were shared between Brad, Robert and Martin in a veering wind that at times had beats that went to a reach and back within a blink, keeping all on their toes. The final race of the day had the predicted Westerly breeze swing from the far end of the lake mid race with Noah McIntosh making the most of an excellent start to only lose his lead on the now run to the finish.
It was a good hit out for skippers heading to the Nationals at Lincoln over the Easter long weekend.
Brad took the win with Paul scoring a steady and well earned 2nd and the strong finishing Martin in 3rd.
Once again thanks to our fantastic race team of Dave Williams and Neil Westbrook who kept the racing ticking over at a welcome pace.
Our next round of the IOM Summer Series is on the 26th of April with a start time of 1.30pm. Enteries can be made at IOM Summer 2025 #2 – Birkenhead RS&PC
