Folly Race report

Published 15:47 on 9 Jun 2021

Extraordinarily, Kyra came third last weekend in our first race for ESC. Was this the skill of the crew, the wimpish wind or simply, and much more likely, a lucky break?

We started sluggishly, the fleet scampered ahead and we discovered that sailing in the Solent is less about the sails and more about reading the tidal flow charts. Dull the wind may have been but with the well-lubricated crew, and a sprinkling of good fortune, we turned up to finish at the Berthon Buoy - so close we were able to touch it. Quite a bit closer than many other boats which were swept westwards towards The Needles!

The Slipper members put on a fine Prosecco-fuelled pontoon drinks party in honour of Jennie's birthday, which augured well for our chances the following day. We all started 2 hours later than programmed. It should be noted that the Stansore buoy off the Beaulieu River entrance proved rather difficult to round - an excellent course selection by the Race Officer. The slow beat up to the CHI finish was nail-biting, requiring skilled timing to ensure we did not also become a victim of the tide.

Mark Broad
Kyra, first placed ESC and winner of Kings Scott trophy, third overall