INTERNATIONAL FLYING DUTCHMAN CLASS

BALA SAILING CLUB

2/3 July 2005

The FD fleet enjoyed very close racing during the Long Distance race (Saturday) and Pursuit Race (Sunday) on Lake Bala which were organised by Bala Sailing Club.

The Long distance race, three and a half hours with three laps of Lake Bala – a long beat followed by a series of reaches/runs back down the lake which lies in a valley. The gusty wind force 4/5 wind provided challenging sailing for the fleet. Stang & Alex started well but had to put to shore to make a few repairs. Rosie & Neal fought hard to keep in contact and Tony & Colin started well but faded leaving Julian & Corin to battle it out with Peter & Richard who swapped the lead many times until an unfortunate incident terminated the battle.

An hour of video footage was taken by James from Bethan’s rib and will be used for future training purposes.

Saturday night the fleet congregated in a large pizza restaurant and enjoyed a convivial evening.

Sunday morning saw stronger winds and the battle for the lead between Julian & Corin and Peter & Richard was even more intense with exhilarating sailing and frequent changes of leader. At the end.of the three hour race, Julian was first FD by half a boat length and a few seconds behind the overall winner – a Blaze.

Our thanks go to Bala SC for a great event,

Results