Enterprise Open at Redditch Sailing Club
by Greg Croydon 23 Oct 2005 20:12 BST
15 October 2005
The start of race 3 at the Redditch Enterprise open © John Noakes
This year’s Redditch SC Open was held in light and difficult conditions – leading to exciting racing, plenty of changes of position and lady luck playing a large role! Six visitors joined five local boats to form a competitive fleet enjoying the sunny and warm weather in the penultimate event of the Midland’s Double Chine Series, sponsored by Speed Sails.
Dave Jackson, sailing with Hilary Farmiloe, led the fleet away and was first to the windward mark closely followed by Steve Graham with Alison Torrens, and Greg Croydon with Gail Ranford. In fact Dave managed to reach the first mark in first place in all three races. Greg Croydon slid into the lead on the second lap and managed to pull away as the rest of the fleet fell into a windless zone. Steve Graham came in second with Dave Jackson finishing in third.
By the start of the second race the wind had picked up slightly. Dave Jackson led away with the rest in hot pursuit. Greg and Dave swapped places regularly, closely followed by Paul Young with Ian Smith. This trio broke away from the rest of the fleet. Dave crossed the line first but was later disqualified for a start line incident. Greg was declared the winner having just sneaked back past Paul Young on the last leg. Martin Bottomley with Jonathon Woodward crewing took third place.
Following a delicious lasagne lunch (highlight of the day for many!), the third and final race provided the closest racing of the day in the early stages with a number of place changes. During the second lap Steve Graham established a clear lead with Paul Young and Greg Croydon following in his wake. However, with two laps to go, luck smiled on Greg again as Steve sailed into a hole. Greg went on to win his third race with Steve coming in second ahead of Paul Young. Unfortunately Greg’s luck did not rub off on his lottery ticket that night!
Overall Results:
1st Greg Croydon and Gail Ranford, E22401 (Redditch SC)
2nd Steve Graham and Alison Torrens, E23058 (Hollowell SC)
3rd Paul Young and Ian Smith, E22689 (Birmingham Brookvale SC)