Hunter 707s at the TYCO Healthcare Hamble Winter Series

Pocket Battleship, second overall in the 707 class at the TYCO Healthcare Hamble Winter Series © Gareth Russell

For the Hunter 707, the 2003 Tyco Healthcare Hamble Winter Series was one of the most competitive in recent years. With 40 boats entered, the 707 continues to prove its popularity as it was the largest of the 14 fleets in the series, and the variety of wind strengths and conditions ensured close and intense racing throughout this well-liked one-design class.

The crew of Chilli Chaser, helmed by national champion Ian Southworth, showed consistency throughout the series and dominated the results table. Their overall victory wasn’t secured until the last weekend, but they did this in style, winning both races in blustery conditions. With an impressive nine wins from 12 races, their total points tally of 16 has them on equal points for top sportsboat in the series.

In second overall, Mark Gillett and the crew on Pocket Battleship, had a couple of average results early on but finished well to secure their spot with a weekend to spare. In third were James Ross and the boys on Black Sheep who were pushed by John Parker and the crew of Miss Moneypenny right up to the last weekend. Harry Hall, Tim Hunt and the crew of Jeff, showed blistering speed at times to finish fifth overall.

The 707 fleet continues to provide extremely close racing for many people. With over 200 sailors competing regularly on the Solent between September and December we are definitely doing something right.

Overall Results: