The gloomy wet forecast didn’t stop 5 enthusiasts from enjoying 16 races in superb exciting conditions. The south south-west wind gradually veered to the south-west and was strong enough to give planing conditions on the run and at times it was more than the A rigs could cope with, as the strongest gusts resulted in nosedives and broaches. It was really great to see the fleet all in the line running flat out!
When the wind became more south-westerly a strategic decision had to be made at the leeward gate, to stay in the strong wind near the far bank or follow the rumb line course in lighter and more variable winds on the beat back to the finish. Martin with his brand-new blue boat was the master of this and was only beaten 3 times scoring 11 wins, which you can see from the results. Slieve & Mike Barnes got 2 wins each to share 2nd and 4th places only interrupted by Roger’s single win.
At the last visit to Abbey Meads the water level had dropped ‘4 steps’ from the top of the bank flood level, but amazingly the recent rain raised the groundwater level, which feeds the lake, to within 2 steps of the top. This made the track on the west bank too muddy for vehicles, but okay to reach the western control area on foot.
We look forward to more exciting racing in a fortnight’s time on the 28th February.
