Leader Open at Buckenham Sailing Club

The final open meeting of the Leader Class series took place at Buckenham SC in Norfolk on 14-15 August. 3 visitors joined the local boats for two very enjoyable days, in warm sunshine and variable winds.

Saturday’s racing took the form of a passage race down the River Yare to Cantley. From the start, local teams, John Barton and Jackie Howard – followed by Janet Gilmour and Jane Winslade - made the most of their local knowledge and left the visiting lake sailors struggling against the tide. Barton soon extended a considerable lead and was the first to reach ‘the Reedcutter’ at Cantley.

While the crews were enjoying some refreshment the breeze dropped and by the time the return leg started there was insufficient wind to overcome the tide. Everybody enjoyed a slow tow back to Buckenham admiring the local scenery and wild-life!

Sunday’s racing took place, round the cans, and in stronger winds. The first race was a tightly fought battle between the Wharmbys and Janet Gilmour and Jane Winslade. The lead swapped several times with the Wharmbys eventually winning by a couple of boat lengths. Behind them Roger Morse and Robert Morris enjoyed a close race with Robert’s parents, Richard and Chrissie.

Race Two saw Morse and Morris first over the line and leading the fleet up the beat. After a close race, the Wharmbys again took line honours, this time with the Morris Seniors close behind. With Wharmby taking first place in the final race, the event was his, with Janet and Jane 2nd and Richard and Chrissie Morris 3rd.

Thank you to all at Buckenham SC for their warm welcome and hospitality… and delicious BBQ!

Overall Results: