Spring Series Race 2 - Fast Handicap

Published 20:02 on 16 Mar 2025

A brisk 10-15 knot northeasterly, paired with plenty of blue sky and sunshine, set the stage for Race 2 of the Spring Series.

Launching once again at low tide turned into a muddy affair, but it was made more bearable thanks to Malcolm Mackley, who was efficiently whisking trollies away.

The Fast Handicap was again a two-boat contest. John Burn, sailing his Merlin Rocket with son Frankie—back in the front after missing the previous race due to illness—went up against Peter Colclough in his RS400, with Emily Hoar crewing for the first time.

The Short Race Handicap, which starts alongside the Fast Handicap, saw two Laser Radials—sailed by Greg Hoar and Adam Ryan-Carter—along with Allan Willcox in a Laser 4.7.

Unfortunately, Peter and Emily were late getting to the start, giving John and Frankie a small head start as they set off on the course: 3-7-1-3-1.

The highlight of the race was an exhilarating two-sail reach to Gerston and back, with both boats flat out and their crews grinning from ear to ear. John and Frankie steadily built a comfortable lead. They completed the remainder of the course in the main harbour, securing both line honours and victory on corrected time.

Greg led the Laser fleet from the hooter, but Adam kept him keen up the first beat. As they made their way to mark 7 and back, the fleet started to spread out slightly, though Allan, in the smaller 4.7, remained within striking distance.

The Race Officer shortened the course as they returned from Blackstone for the first time. Greg, with a polished performance, crossed the line first, earning him back-to-back victories. Allan was awarded second place on corrected time, with Adam finishing third. The final results were incredibly close, with only around 30 seconds separating each of the three boats after handicaps were applied, highlighting a tight and competitive race.

By John Burn

Photos Lucy Burn