Spring Trophy - 4th May

Published 10:34 on 13 May 2026

A lack of wind during the morning led to a postponement until a light SSE breeze filled in at around 6 knots. A trapezoidal course was set for the first race from an extended start line, with Thwaite used as the windward mark. The mixed fleet of Tempests and dinghies then reached to Brunskill, followed by a broad reach to Lodge, before returning to the outer distance mark via North Bay.

In this opening race, the large symmetrical spinnakers of the Tempests and Flying Fifteens provided gains on certain legs, but the mono-sail ILCA 7s and a K1 performed well, separating from the slower keelboats on corrected time.

After lunch, the breeze became a little more consistent, allowing a switch to a windward-leeward course using Harbour as the leeward mark. While the top three places were again taken by the Tempests and a Flying Fifteen, the mono-sail boats pushed another Flying Fifteen and a 49er further down the standings. With the breeze freshening slightly and veering for the third race, two Flying Fifteens and a 49er secured the top three positions on corrected time.

Consistency proved decisive, with John Abbott and Chris Mulholland in Flying Fifteen 3917 taking the overall win with just 5 points. Ian Modrel and Robin Higgens in Tempest 1114 finished second on 9 points, while Jonathan Nicoll claimed the final podium place in his ILCA 7.

Presenting the prizes, President John Robinson thanked the safety crew of Martin and Denise Sykes, supported by Steve Davison and Mark Ashley. Both he and the competitors also expressed their appreciation to PRO Paul Lewis and ARO Claire Brock for delivering an enjoyable day of racing despite the light conditions.

Last updated 10:34 on 13 May 2026