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Bournemouth Digital Poole Week 2024 – Day 3 Highlights
25-30 August 2024
Blow the Wind Southerly!
Poole Harbour presented a captivating sailing experience during Poole Week on Tuesday, characterized by variable wind conditions. The top sailing area for the Flying Fifteens and ILCAs saw the wind primarily from the south, with occasional variations challenging racers. As the discard rule came into play after four races, competitors with three solid results remained in contention for the top positions.
In contrast, fleets starting from the Parkstone Platform faced even more dramatic wind shifts. After the first four starts, the breeze unexpectedly veered left, stabilizing around 140 degrees. This necessitated quick course adjustments by race officer Bob Jennings, complicating the management of multiple fleets during a significant wind shift.
Despite these challenges, the standings largely reflected previous performances. In the fast handicap fleet, Steve Thomson’s GP14 from Poole YC achieved a remarkable feat by winning both races of the day, tying for the lead with Steve and Ally Tyler’s Merlin Rocket, both accumulating four points. Meanwhile, two other Poole YC boats, the Contenders helmed by David Evans and Nathan McGrory, occupied 3rd and 4th place respectively, both at 12 points.
New to this year’s event is a combined start for the RS200s and RS400s from the Parkstone Platform. The 12-strong RS200 fleet is led confidently by Bruce and Katy Moyes, with Peter Loretto and Lily Tointon following closely behind. Dave and Jan Pointer remain competitive, just two points back despite technical difficulties they faced earlier in the week.
Last year’s Wayfarer winner, Sean Murray, along with his wife, Helen, transitioned to the RS400s this year and have quickly established a three-point lead. In the Wayfarers, Jackie Dobson’s performance of 2nd and 1st place on Tuesday propelled her into the overall lead.
In the XOD fleet, Willie McNeill maintained his lead with a strong performance, finishing 1st in one race and discarding a 7th from another. John Tremlett closely trails, just one point behind, following a strong 2nd place finish in the second race. Penny Fulford from Itchenor claimed a decisive win in the second race.
In the top triangle, racers Bob Alexander and Huw Willetts faced difficulties, finishing 11th in the first race. However, they rebounded to win the second race, helping them retain their top position. Similarly, in the ILCA 7s, the previous leader, Matt Reid, managed to stay in front after winning the first race of the day while discarding a 5th from his scores. Meanwhile, in the ILCA 6s, Roger O’Gorman’s experience allowed him to edge one point ahead of the younger competitor, Tom Hakes.
Overall, the day was filled with excitement and unpredictable shifts, making it a memorable sailing experience. It offered ideal weather conditions for those on the water, despite the occasional turbulence in standings.
For provisional results, visit www.pooleweek.org.
Photos from the event can be found at www.SailingScenes.com.
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Oliver Hayes, a seasoned sailor and marine journalist from Southampton, has a profound love for the sea that has shaped his career. Holding a degree in Marine Journalism from the University of Portsmouth, Oliver is celebrated for his compelling and insightful storytelling. His work vividly captures the excitement of sailing and the rich maritime heritage of the United Kingdom, making him a respected figure in the sailing community. When not writing, Oliver enjoys exploring the British Isles’ diverse coastlines and participating in local regattas, always on the lookout for his next nautical adventure.
