2023 Squib Season got under way with the 4 short races for the Cheeseboard Trophy.

Everybody congregated in the morning on a RC sunny balcony to set the course, it was agreed and everybody got under way for a 10.35 warning signal, with 11 boats on the start line!

The fleet welcomes two new teams to the fleet and one new crew – Squib ‘Hey Bouys’ sailed by Scarlet Anderson and Portia Hutchings plus ‘Outcast’ sailed by Niamh Davis and Hannah Harden. We have also kidnapped Andrew Norden aka Noddy from the Dragon Fleet!

There were some good performances with Race 1 won by Nic and Ross (What’s the Story) and the Commodore and Shep taking a 2nd place.

Race 2 was won by Jono and Chris, with Nic and Ross having another good race to take 2nd place.

Races 3 and 4 were won by Micky and Alex.

The winner overall with 4 races to count was Jono and Chris, they won on countback to Malcy and Andy who showed good consistency.

After racing many of us congregated upstairs for the inaugural Cheeseboard lunch. The Class Captain stood up after the meal to present the Trophy to the winners Jono and Chris. Soon after the presentation Port was flowing, and it was said the following morning that 18 Bottles had been consumed.

The next afternoon we again congregated on the balcony, some with sore heads to compete in the Mike Flint Trophy.

Two races were set with a total of 14 Squibs competing.

Race 1 was convincingly won by Micky and Alex who had a commanding lead.

Robert and Marc had a well-deserved 2nd Place.

Race 2 was won by Jono and Chris.

Unfortunately, due to lack of wind on Sunday, racing was cancelled. With two races completed for the Mike Flint, it was Micky and Alex who claimed the Trophy, with one point separating Jono and Chris in 2nd place and Robert and Marc in third.

Unfortunately, Nic and Ross had to retire from the Mike Flint, due to a broken rudder pintle. The other incident was the Commodore parking his boat in the South shore mud – I think he was looking for his lost Golf Ball! Thanks to Ed Aspinall for some great drone coverage of this incident and the other starts!

Next event up is the 2023 Squib Gold Cup, 29th and 30th April. SI’s and NOR together with entry form is on the Club Website. Please enter as soon as you can to help for organisation of the event.

Dan Wastnage.