Report and Results for BPYC Autumn Race 2- Errol Hazelwood Handicap

With our usual start/finish boat, Free ‘Neasy, still out of action, Starter John borrowed a replacement, a distinctive blue and white Hood called Itchy Feet.  Hoods were competitive yachts back in the day, and it’s interesting to compare to designs today (even back then, Hoods were somewhat controversial).

We had a starting (and finishing) fleet of five yachts with even the wet-weather averse Cap’n Carl campaigning Blue Sky.  At various times, the sky was a mixture of clouds delivering rain, and clear blue.  Sail selection was a challenge for those who had alternatives, but by the second time around Course 2, all had had a chance to reflect on their choice in a wind that went from about 4 to around 15 knots.  G-Whizz was able to demonstrate the ease of its one-sheet reefing system.

The long course meant that surely some yacht would be able to pass Megisti which has had a considerable share of podium finishes this season.  This was especially the case since all yachts competing, except Megisti, had been given a reduction in their handicap after Race 1 of the Autumn Series.

As it turned out, passing Megisti wasn’t where the main action was happening.  G-Whizz, Conquista and Blue Sky were having an interesting tussle between themselves, as well as negotiating a large fleet of 18-footers racing on the Harbour.  For G-Whizz, this also involved a close encounter with a couple of large spectator boats who seemed to be concentrating on the 18-footers and not anyone else racing on the harbour.

Ultimately, no yacht passed Megisti.  Blue Sky came in second, about six minutes behind the winner, and Conquista came third, just 17 seconds ahead of G-Whizz, which she passed about half way along the last leg of the course.  That just left Martela to cross the line and allow Starter John and crew to motor home after a damp day on the water.