George wrote:
All,
A quick report on the third instalment of the Grafham Pro-Am series.
The third Grafham Dart 15 Pro-Am took place on 7th April in a fresh force 4 breeze. This was to be the first Pro-Am that applies to two afternoon races and this attracted a good turnout of 5 pros and 9 ams (and 2 cruising Dart 15's who chose to watch the proceedings). With the Pro's in the minority there were 4 Am's in each race who did not have the disruption of a Pro. This suited Jonathan Perkins who led round the first windward mark. He was followed by a long line of boats having a very close race on the first reach including, John Long, Dave Bennion, Simon Baynes, Frank Sandells, Trevor Arnold, Bob Rowntree and Robert Ulph. This close racing continued after the end of the first lap, although a couple of capsizes spread the fleet. By the end, the Pro's had taken the top few places with Bill Tusting very generously giving the victory to Simon Farthing by sailing the wrong course. Liz Rugg after a good start suffered the George jinx (her Pro) and capsized half way up the first beat. After righting and being joined on the boat by George for a quick capsize drill she set off to join in the remainder off the race when a dismasting drill was added to the day's agenda. Unpeturbed, Liz vowed to be back at the helm as soon as new shrouds have been made up by the Grafham Chandler!
A couple of the pairings were swapped for the second race which was notable for some excellent performances from all Am's. After a very competetive start Frank Sandells shot off into a 200 yard lead persued by the leading bunch of Bob Rowntree, Jonathan Perkins, Robert Ulph and John Long all of whom had sailed particularly good first beats leaving their Pro's struggling to keep up. A hundred yards behind, Simon Baynes, Dave Bennion, Trevor Arnold (and respective Pro's) were also chasing hard. The leading bunch had the bonus of a quick English lesson as Frank capsized during a gusty gybe. At the end of the first lap Jonathan Perkins led, followed closely by Robert Ulph, John Long and Bob Rowntree. The racing remained close with three Pro's eventually coming to the fore, Bill Tusting followed closely by Stuart Snell and George Carter. Robert Ulph was unfortunate to capsize up the last beat and damage his leward hull badly forcing him to reluctantly retire.
So overall the day was notable, in particular, for some excellent performances from the Amateurs who after only 3 sessions are giving the Professionals a real run for their money. Also for a good turnout when three regular Pro's and two regular Am's were unavailable. With several new members due the potential turnout is over 20. At the end of the day several Am's asked for thanks to be communicated to their Pro's, so special thanks to Bill Tusting, Stuart Snell, Simon Farthing, Steve Sawford and George Carter. The next session will be on Sunday 5th May.
