Laser 2 Open at Lancing Sailing Club

Disappointment at Lancing

After the passage of a cold front, and its associated squally rain, only two boats braved the shore-break to start the first race. Nigel Skudder and Keith Hills from Starcross YC showed locals, Mike and Di Croker, how to handle strong winds, although even the former had to douse their spinnaker on the second reach to regain some control. However disaster struck on the next beat when a long suffering jib halyard shackle gave up the struggle, leaving the Croker's to cruise to an easy victory.

With the rising tide the beach was now getting very interesting - the Croker's return to shore stopping about 40 yards out when the crew abandoned ship somewhat prematurely! Fortunately the Lancing beach party dived in to the rescue before any serious physical damage occurred.

Monday morning saw an easier sea and lower tide, but slightly stronger wind, touching force 7 at times in the odd rain squall - it was Bank Holiday Monday, after all. Again only 2 boats left the beach, but after sailing around pre-start, both decided that conditions were just too extreme and returned to the shore.