Sunday afternoon was the turn of the One Metres to sail their class Club Anniversary Championship event. Although not all would be able to finish the whole series of heats 11 boats started in challenging conditions.

The wind had been increasing steadily throughout the day and by early afternoon was reaching between 18 and 25 mph with gusts up to 30.

Some had tried top rig but second suit became the only real option as the wind continued and the chop was considerable on occasions. When overpowered, there were some spectacular sights of boats almost disappearing, rudders and transoms in the air before they righted themselves again. It was a testimony to the preparation of their boats and the robust nature of them that apart from minor issues, nobody suffered material damage.

Derek Morland with his Britpop was in a class of his own managing to keep the boat both remarkably stable in such challenging conditions but at the same time very quick. From the 10 heats, being able to discard his one second place and one third he ended with a perfect net 8 points.

Alex Cory, sailing one of his own designs was a very creditable second overall with net 14 before quite a gap to third overall, Ian Davies with net 32 points.

Whilst the competitors might have thought the whole situation somewhat challenging, from the spectator’s standpoint, it was one of the most enthralling and exhilerating race days to watch.

Thanks are due to Paul Edwards and Chris Durant for RO duties