Enterprise Open at North Staffs Sailing Club

24th April 05 saw the start of round 4 of the Top Helm series at North Staffs SC. The wind was very fresh due to its easterly direction, but the sun shined and shone all day. Toast & tea was served for the visitors. We started a little bit late as we had some late arrivals (Mike Birch).

Race 1, The Lake at North Staffs is very small so we used the complete course. Included in the course were three beats several runs and two reaches. Husband and Wife Team Charles Adams Lead the pack and won the first race closely followed by John Berry and Mark Russell, in 3rd was Mike Birch with crew Charles Bower. The racing was very close but Charles Adams seemed to be on fire.

Race 2, Steve Blackburn & Alan Blackburn where first round the windward mark and by the first lap they gained a huge lead. The third lap saw a wind shift up the beat which Charles Adams took full advantage and closed the gap. Charles finally overtook Steve on the next beat and but Steve didn’t lose touch and Charles had a narrow lead at the end. Mike Birch also sailed well and overtook every boat from forth to claim 3rd after restarting the race because of being a bit eager.

Race 3, Mike Birch seem to have got his act together and started 1st and finished 1st. Charles was 2nd and not far away from the leading boat. In third, well it was Steve for a while. Then Tim Finch & Jackie Finch and finally it was John Berry who overtook on the last beat to ensure 3rd place overall. Mike Birch was 2nd overall and a new open winner for this year, congratulations to Charles and his wife for winning.

A big thank you to North Staffs for an excellent day of racing and supplying great food and just being thoroughly friendly.

Overall Results: