The GUL RS Feva nationals took place from 21-23 August at Paignton SC. The first race started in light winds, but when boats are flying kites on the windward leg you know things are wrong; race abandoned. When the sea breeze kicked in, the course was quickly re-laid and we banged in three races. Results favoured the lighter crews and the Saxton twins were leading from James Peters and Peter Henry.

Day two provided a perfect Force 3-4, rolling seas. The leader board started to change as the heavier crews moved up. Francis Peters and Claire Lasko were the winners of the day, but the Saxtons maintained their overall lead. The Commodore’s reception was well attended, but after hard day’s racing and high winds expected for Monday most drifted off early.

A Force 5 arrived for day three. After a detailed briefing all competitors decided to take on the conditions. The Saxtons were uncharacteristically caught OCS, but an excellent gybe to re-cross the line had them back in the race and sailed well to finish second. Simon Kitchen and Bethany Robson were not playing it safe, flying down the leeward leg fully hiked out – death or glory sailing! They lost it 20 yards from the finish and dropped a well deserved third to end up 10th. After the leading 10 boats had finished the wind built to Force 6 and boats capsized across the course. The next six boats struggled heroically to finish before the race was stopped for safety. Four rescue boats swiftly dealt with the remaining boats.

Overall Results

1st Ben Saxton and Tim Saxton

2nd Frances Peters and Claire Lasko

3rd James Peters and Peter Henry