Fireball Nationals at Pentewan Sands Sailing Club Days 1 & 2

The Fireballs are being hosted for the first time at Pentewan Sands in Cornwall. A healthy entry of 56 boats arrived eager for sailing on the waters of Mevagissey Bay.

The first race held on Sunday 21st August saw a pleasant NW force 3 and sunshine. The fleet got off to a clean start bang on schedule. The gusty NW breeze was gradually building and led to some close tactical sailing with positions changing throughout the race. Line honours went to Tom Gillard and Sam Breary with Martin Lewis and Richard Byne 2nd and Chips Howarth and Richard Anderton 3rd.

There was a quick turn around for race 2 and with the wind above 12 knots. The race committee displayed the O flag. After a general recall the black flag was brought out of the bag enabling the restart to get off cleanly. With a strengthening breeze the fleet was fully powered up. Some of the language at the wing and leeward marks was entertaining. Tim Rush and Sam Pascoe sailed an outstanding race to win by a wide margin. Second place went to Penny and Ian Gibbs with team Gillard and Brearly snagging the 3rd spot.

Day 2 was lost due to lack of wind. Day 3 has been swapped as the lay day with the forecast showing better breeze for the remainder of the week.

Results after Day 1: