The first race of the Royal Western YC of England’s Yacht Parts Plymouth Laser winter series took place on 16 February. Leading the 42-boat fleet, using his local knowledge, was Ron Lee RWYC followed by 170252 James Boyce of Plymouth Youth Sailing and Paul Liddington of Hooe Point SC.

In the gusty conditions Liddington was the first to swim losing the advantage he had gained at the start. First around the inflatable laid off the RPCYC was Boyce closely pursued by Robert Fletcher’s boat, and Keri Harris RNSA.

The reach to S Mallard again saw some swimmers but the rounding order to start the beat back to the club was Boyce – Fletcher and Harris. The beat back was won and lost by judging the wind and tide.

Leading was Harris followed by Boyce and Nick Carus of Paignton SC with Neil Trathen RNSA closing up. Veteran David Searle RWYC was 10th at this point having regained some of his Scorpion sailing expertise from the 60s when he sailed against the race officer and Peter Harvey of the PPSA regularly. The order at the inflatable was Boyce, Harris, Fletcher, Trathen, Carus and Joel walker of Plymouth University.

On the final beat Harris managed to squeeze past Boyce with Carus finishing third.

Overall Results

1st Keri Harris RNSA

2nd James Boyce PYS

3rd Nick Carus Paignton SC

4th Joel Walker Plymouth University

5th Nick Trathen RNSA