Following a successful coaching session at Burghfield SC on 24 March, 18 National 12 teams sailed for the second event in the Thames Area series on Sunday.

A large header at the start of the first race caused chaos, but Graham and Zoë Camm, followed by John and Mandy Thornton, managed to tack off and gain space. Despite several close battles, the Camms stayed ahead to the finish.

In the second race, the start was very port biased and Antony and Jo Gifford took the pin end at speed. The Thorntons however, were first to the windward mark and pulled away from the fleet, until a capsize on a gybe. The following pack swapped places on the remaining legs, with the Giffords finally taking first from Jon Ibbotson and Charlotte Stewart.

The wind increased for the third start, giving the fleet a good early-season workout. The Camms were first round the windward mark, with Dave Peacock and Tricia Wood not far behind. Fran Gifford and Sophie Mackley eventually overtook Peacock and Wood on the final windward mark to take second place. Junior helmsman George Smith, crewed by Jackie Whitmey, showed great promise despite their lightweight combination.

Overall Results

1. Graham and Zoë Camm, Burghfield SC
2. Frances Gifford and Sophie Mackley, Aldeburgh YC
3. Jon Ibbotson and Charlotte Stewart, Royal Harwich YC

1st Junior: George Smith and Jackie Whitmey
1st Admiral’s Cup: Mike and Alex Storey