Twenty-five Fireflys made the trip to Rutland for the 2023 Firefly Inland Championship, held 21st and 22nd October 2023.
The fleet awoke Saturday morning to find Storm Babet had completely passed over a day earlier than forecast and conditions were sunny and calm - The exact opposite of what had been predicted. The mood in the boat park was relaxed and friendly and no one was surprised or disappointed when PRO Stog opted to hold everyone ashore for an hour to wait for wind. This gave ample time for more boat bimbling and a good dissection of the year over tea and bacon rolls.
Delta was raised exactly one hour later and the fleet launched into light but building breeze, eager for five short races.
Racing done for the day, twenty-five Fireflys headed in for a hotly anticipated night of "lasagne and lash". Everyone was in great spirits as they tucked into generous portions of lasagne and apple and berry crumble after a good day on the water before, suitably refreshed, moving into the bar to continue the night.
On Sunday morning Delta was hoisted right as promised and the fleet headed out into the main pool for another three races. Much to everyone's delight, the breeze had picked up overnight so the crews would happily now be on the side.
Prize-giving took place promptly after racing to enable most of the fleet to get home. Event winners and our 2023 Inland Champions Steve Tylecoate and Alice Lucy from Rutland sailing F3037 'Grasshopper' were presented with the magnificent Silver Firefly trophy. Second place Nigel Wakefield and Emily Saunderson from Netley and Lymington Town sailing F3007 'TipTopToo'. Third Place and top lady helm Jenny Smallwood and Phil Aldhous from West Oxfordshire Sailing Club sailing F3625 'Squabbling Phonenix'. Harry Burge and Oliver McKee from Rutland sailing 1979 'Winter of Discontent' were top youth and UEA's Steve Carver and Chloe Harding in 'Unicorn' were top Institution Boat.
The fleet was full of praise to the race team for setting excellent lines, perfect race length and not faffing around - racing that seamless takes a lot of skill. Thank you Rutland SC for a great weekend - we can't wait to return!
The next and final event on the Firefly Open calendar is the Spinnaker Twisted Tube on the 4th of November and Open on the 5th of November.
Pre-enter at :- www.spinnakerclub.co.uk/booking/type/open-meeting
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