Nine skippers turned out for the second Sunday morning IOM handicap system of races sailed on the small pond. Conditions were blustery and chilly. A SW wind greeted the start of the first race.

Due to this direction a start line had to be laid just ten metres from the east bank and with the wind increasing to borderline No1/No2 rigs to say the area was busy is to put it politely. Skippers were given handicaps with the experts starting up to 30 seconds after the first (slowest) boat was away. With all boats sporting a No1 rigs most were over powered and it was the later starting boats that picked their way through the fleet to gain the honours.The conditions were such that the handicap system gave way to normal fleet racing as the morning progressed which reduced the number of collisions but it was the sight of up to five boats with bows immersed up to mast that made for a spectacular shoots for any photographer.

Speaking with the skippers after racing it was a broad opinion that in such conditions the handicap system was not really a viable proposition particularly at the start area. Even so all thoroughly enjoyed the morning’s races and would be back for more sport when hopefully there will be less wind. The club would appreciate any comments that skippers wish to make with regard handicap IOM racing and we look forward to a greater turnout as the series progresses.