The fifth and final race of the MYC Spring Series took place on a slightly chilly and overcast Sunday morning, with a light 6 - 8 knot north-easterly breeze and the very last of the ebb tide greeting racers gathering on the start line. This offered a tactical challenge for the four Class 1 and six Class 2 boats. While the weather was far from spring-like, the racing was anything but dull, with close competition throughout both the fleets and series standings still in play.
The course was set for a fetch down river with a brief upwind section in Pinup Reach and the moored barges to avoid. Class 1 sailing the longer course down river as far as the start of Tanker Reach. Class 2 sailing a similar course with buoy 15 as the furthest down river.
Eventually the West side came good by a small-head and Countdown led round the turn mark, Chips second and Aquila third. This group stayed in that order for the remainder of the race despite challenges from Chips chasing Countdown. A short flat run and turn on to a tight reach to keep the foredeck teams and crews on their toes with their sail handling.
In the latter stages, as Class 1 caught up with Class 2, the boats closed in together and there was tight upwind racing back through Short Reach to the finish.
For race 5 Countdown finished 1st on IRC and Chips second on corrected time. after a very tight series.
With the final race complete, the overall Spring Series results were confirmed. Ten boats had participated across the five-race series, with six racing on the final day.
In YTC, Short Wave and Petite Fleur finished tied on points, with Short Wave taking 1st overall on countback and Petite Fleur second. Hotspur's strong final result lifted her to third place. In CH standings, Short Wave emerged first, followed by Petite Fleur in second and Gothik in third.
After racing, both Class 1 and 2 fleets gathered at the clubhouse for a cheerful prize-giving and BBQ, a fitting conclusion to the series as the sun finally made its appearance. Prizes were given out by our Commodore Catherine Gore.
The Spring Series concluded on a high, with competitive racing, tight results, and a strong sense of camaraderie. Both classes provide for friendly, close quarters racing in a welcoming and spirited group. Whether you're new to racing or a seasoned sailor, this series offers fantastic competition and an opportunity to sail and hone your skills in great company.
We encourage all owners of suitable yachts to come out and join in - you won't regret it!
The teams all now are looking forward to the Club's Keelboat Regatta on 14th-15th June, details on the club's website :- www.medwayyachtclub.com/racing/keelboat-regatta
Thanks also to Race Officers Philip Clarabut, our Vice Commodore and Edwin Hannant, and finally but importantly Cruiser Racer Class Captain Tim French. Special thanks were extended to Richard, Tim, and the race team for their excellent organisation and steadfast commitment throughout the series.
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