There was the tightest of conclusions to Dell Quay SC’s Laser 2000 open meeting on 4 July 2004. The final race saw a nailbiting finish, as in a fading breeze the three leading boats – all with a chance of overall victory – took contrasting courses on the run against the ebbing tide.

First-race winners Tim and Linda Hulley (Weir Wood SC) chose the shortest middle line, running rather than gennaker reaching, but the tactic failed. Bill and Charlotte Dawber (DQSC), leaders round the previous mark, sailed a great circle course to the western shore in a bid to avoid the tide, while Graham and Mattie Ponsford (Chichester YC) also headed out of the tide, but eastwards.

The course was shortened at the leeward mark, and the Ponsfords narrowly took the winning gun. Their first place, added to their win in race two, ensured they headed the fleet overall. Behind, the Hulleys and Dawbers tied on points, but the visitors took second place by virtue of having one better result.

Dell Quay was delighted to welcome 10 visiting boats – including four from Weir Wood, others from as far afield as Northampton and Salisbury and two from neighbouring CYC – to bring the entry to 15 for its second open meeting for its fastest-growing dinghy class.

Results

1. Graham and Mattie Ponsford (Chichester YC) 2pts

2. Tim and Linda Hulley (Weir Wood SC) 4pts

3. Bill and Charlotte Dawber (Dell Quay SC) 4pts

4. Andrew and Liz Snell (Army SA) 8pts

5. Joe Pascoe and Amy Hulley (Weir Wood SC) 10pts