End of racing decrees that winners celebrate and losers morn… not so at Cowes. Not only does the sheer number of entrants mean that it takes somewhat longer to evaluate who’s actually started, finished, won or been disqualified, but then comes the onerous task of judging an array of protests ranging from minor infringement to writing-off the opposition.

Fortunately, and despite the record number of entries, incidents are relatively few and far between. Today has gone particularly well, having heard reports of just one collision and no dis-mastings or serious damage other than the odd blown-out kite here and there.

On the subject on incidents, Victory Z53, named Merganiser and owned by Alfred Lytton, was seen taken in tow by the Cowes Harbour launch in front of the Royal Yacht Squadron. The last report suggested that she was “in danger of sinking right by the RYS steps, and crewmen were seen bailing furiously with a bucket!”

The XOD fleet were back on form today with a general recall of the entire fleet after most of which jumped the start, which was an a rather impromptu moment for the line officer, who reported a “broken bra strap” required attention.

Predictably Bear of Britain took a provisional first for the Class 0 IRC on handicap – although Leopard was streets ahead on the course, her handicap is something that Mike Slade would no doubt like to have reconsidered.

Also in Class 0 IRC, Australia II managed to outdo the two other 12-metres in her class by a considerable amount, finishing fourth compared to the10th and 16th of her counterparts.

Full results will be available on the Cowes Week website: www.cowesweek2.co.uk later today. We’ll be back tomorrow for an update prior to racing tomorrow morning.