Blaze Open at Blackpool and Fleetwood Yacht Club
by Chris Pimlott 25 Aug 2005 07:08 PDT
20-21 August 2005
Light winds for the Blazes at the Blackpool & Fleetwood poen © Chris Pimlott
Sunshine and light winds greeted the competitors for the first B&FYC Blaze Open on the 20th and 21st August.
Race 1 took place in very light winds, and with a strong tide running the fleet had difficulty in making it through the start line. Dan Partington was the first to break clear, and led from start to finish.
Race 2 was sailed in slightly more breeze which gave the fleet a chance against the tide. Dan was first away and led round the windward mark, but then lost his lead to Steve Baldam. Alan Dawson took the lead about three quarter of the way round and went on to win, with Dan fighting back for a second place, with Steve third.
The wind shifted and filled in for Race 3 which gave the Race Officer a challenge in re-laying the course. Two boats crossed the line prematurely, with only one going back. Dan led from start to finish, only to be disqualified for a premature start. Ian Brooker had a good start, but could only manage second place, after a good tussle with Chris Pimlott who claimed the win. Alan completed the top three.
The second day brought more sunshine but with a steady breeze. Race 4 was won by Steve who led from start to finish, with Dan second and Ian third.
Race 5 saw various leaders before Dan hit the front and the inevitable win, with Ian second and Chris third. The 6th and final race saw Dan lead the fleet from start to finish to claim his third win, and claim the series with three wins and a second. Ian claimed second overall with two seconds and two thirds, with Alan taking third overall.
Prizes, supplied by sponsors BP Insurance, were awarded by Blackpool & Fleetwood Yacht Club Dingy Captain John Spence, to the top three, with all competitors receiving a commemorative glass.
Overall Results:
1st 668 Dan Partington (Bala SC) 5pts
2nd 673 Ian Brooker (B&FYC) 10 pts
3rd 709 Alan Dawson (Burwain SC) 11pts