Salcombe Yacht Club Commissioning Race 2023

Salcombe YC Commissioning Race © Lucy Burn

A cold, gentle NE breeze paired with a flood tide was on hand to welcome the start of Salcombe Yacht Club 2023 season. 17 boats arrived at the start line, to take on the course set by Chris 'Chubby' Cleaves: 3-1-3-1-3-1.

After a manic first beat where clear air and calling the shifts was imperative the fleet eventually settled down with the Henderson Lark and Bridger Aero out in front.

Close behind, a small group of four Solos had formed containing the two newest additions to the Solo fleet and were locked in a downwind gybing battle along the Portlemouth shore. Fells led this tight group for much of the race but on the second beat back from Blackstone it was Burn who took advantage of the shifts best as they passed in front of the Watch House.

Burn arrived at the mark just ahead of Fells and this duo now started to pull clear from the chasing pack. Unfortunately for the Lark and Aero they were unable to capitalise on their speed advantage and so it was now clear that it would be a two horse race between Fells and Burn for the win.

Salcombe YC Commissioning Race - photo © Lucy Burn

As they reached Blackstone for the last time Fells pipped Burn to the mark putting himself in the driving seat for the final dash to the line and claimed his first win of the season with Burn a close second. Robin Hodges finished off the podium in third.

Thank you to the race team for overseeing procedures on the water and to our new chef Patrick for providing a delicious buffet back at the club after racing for members.

Overall Results:

Salcombe YC Commissioning Race - photo © Lucy Burn