The RCOD’s took pride of place on the river this Saturday, with various sailors away we were the largest fleet racing on the river.

The start under radio starts was challenging for Cormorant, who seemingly had a minute to go before their start!!! Leaving Corsair being helmed by Andy Barr clear to show a perfect start and taking a handsome lead all the way up to the Wallesea Wharf on one tack,  before tacking across the fleet and river and missing the tide and wind that Corella found on the south shore sailing into and then taking the lead up to Cliff Reach.  Then the river took it’s turn one the race, by teasing Corella to the south shore and less tide, while Cormorant took the inside line to No. 15.

Cormorant won the decision and rounded narrowly in front, while behind, Corsair, Coralie (helmed by guest helm John Newcombe), and Coryphee were having a very close tussle for the 3/4/5 slots.

On the run/reach back, Coryphee began chasing down Corella (if only the race was another 100 yds was the comment ashore) , the Judge won this one from the Admiral, while an early spinaker drop allowed Corsair to hold 4th.

Close racing for all on a shifty difficult North/Westerly breeze.

Fun facts for the day, out of the 15 sailors. 7 were Ladies, the RCOD’s leading the way!!!  Special mention needs to go to Rosemary for sprinting down the pontoon at the last moment to make Coralie’s 3rd, and to Sharina (An Otter parent, new to sailing) who was sailing and competing in her first ever race, to then come away with a race win too.

This Sunday is the Annual Caudle Cup Regatta , RCOD’s v RBOD’s , let the fun begin 🙂