Forecasts proved indecisive in the week running up to the 2012 Highcliffe Gul Grand Prix but even given this backdrop as the 26 strong fleet launched into a leisurely 8 knot breeze few would know how the day would unfold.
Race 1 started in these light oscillating winds with ripping tide rolling in waves at a 45 degree angle to the wind, making boatspeed and certain tactics hard to come by. Blooding in their new Team RWO boat, James and Toby, mastered the conditions first pushing their bow in front of the pack and not looking back. Rob & John and Dan & Bart completed the top three.
Throughout the race the wind was building and by the start of the 2nd it was evident that boat handling would now begin to play a part as slip ups in the competitive fleet would prove costly. Date & Wincer were again out in front being chased this time by the new pairing of Hivey and Barlow for the bullet. Kilsby and Bridgen completed the top three for the second time, putting together a strong consistent series, looking comfortable in the conditions.
With the wind holding at just below 18 knots the PRO started the fleet again for the final time of the day. As lap two commenced the fleet was beginning to show its strength in depth now with a pack of 7-8 boats all vying for the medal positions. The beat however was to be many boats last of the day as the breeze clocked left and in an instant built to, depending on who you asked, well above 25 knots. Team RWO again were pushing the limits: kite up, on the knot at the back corner heading for the isle of wight and at the same time putting down a marker in the sand for Garda. Catch them if you can. The remaining fleet was down to 5, battling for second place. Two sailing downwind has never been glamorous with not many helms even claiming to have gone for the gybe but with points still to be had it would take the eventual (and correct) abandonment to stop us from taking the foot off the pedal. The bar would be full of stories tonight.
Day two was glorious; bright sun, light winds. Once bitten however, the fleet knew what to expect and inevitably they were proved correct as again 8 knots gave way to 25 over the course of the morning. Another two races were to be sailed. Date & Wincer took another two bullets: an individual recall in the last race being the only blot on their weekend. Rob and John had a consistent day in the changeable conditions, reeling in a 6th and 7th to gain on their overnight position of third, putting them in silver by the time the prizes were awarded.
Special note goes to The McEwans, being the first mixed pair and Mary and Mari for the first female pair. Unlucky for the weekend was Hivey and Barlow, who for a knotted halyard would have posted three top threes and been odds on for a medal.
Full results at http://www.highcliffesailing.co.uk/downloads/RS800_Open_Event_-_April_2012.htm
With the potential of more wind and waves, roll on Eastbourne on 12/13th May!
