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The Commissioning Race marks the start of the SYC 2022 dinghy racing season.

Published 08:43 on 6 Mar 2022

This Saturday welcomed seventeen boats and their crew to the start line for the 2022 Commissioning Race.

Sailors were greeted with a brisk north-easterly and a spring low tide which limited the Race Officer, Barney Greenhill's, course selection. Barney opted for an initial beat to Mark 3 then onwards for a blast to Gerston and back before looping around Crossways, followed by a short lap in front of the Club.

Two months out of action certainly highlighted some rusty boat handling and judgement of depth, leading to a very entertaining start for the spectators with capsizes, groundings and a lot of shouting!!

Fresh from her winter overhaul with new sails and new colour scheme, 'Loki', the Merlin Rocket of Ross Borne and John Burn, nailed the start leaving the kerfuffle in their wake. The pair were out in front for the entire race, with a commanding lead, and took the overall win.

William Wall was in touching distance of being the first Solo, holding off the chase from Seasoned Pro's, Tim Law and Chris Cleaves, only to fluff his lines on the final gybe opting for a quick dip. Tim Law took full advantage, being the first Solo to cross the line taking 4th on corrected time.

Less drama, but equally exciting, saw the Aero 7's of Tim Fells and Dan Bridger in a close head-to-head. Whether it was down to skill or possibly a weight advantage (or pure luck - you decide!), Tim got the better of Dan on the final downwind leg. This pairing finished 2nd and 3rd overall.

Regardless of all the dramas, multiple capsizes, and lost (new) burgees, it was a great start to the season.

Thank you to Barney and his team; the rescue boat crew were certainly kept busy!

Also, a special thank you to The Sailing Committee for providing a Commissioning High Tea back at the Clubhouse which saw a great turnout with a wonderful atmosphere. Let's hope the post racing social gatherings continue to flourish throughout the season.

John Burn.