This Is Guernsey

A FLEET of 17 racing and cruising yachts were at the start line for the second race in the Heritage Group Frostbite Series, organised by the Royal Channel Islands Yacht Club. In contrast to the first outing, the breeze was fairly light and the sea relatively calm.

It was the usual hectic start, with the racers and cruisers all crossing the line together.

The faster racing yachts soon peeled away from the rest, however, following their own course in the Russel.

White Rabbit (Simon Henning) and the similar Melges 24, March Hare - helmed this time by David Aslett - were soon jostling for position at the head of the fleet.

X-Celerator (Martin Ozard and Steve Morris) was also in contention as was Richard Babbe’s Dreamtime - a pretty Dehler 36 that was eventually to finish well down the list on handicap.

The two Melges were first over the finish line with White Rabbit marginally ahead but neither would end up in the top positions.

X-Celerator was third at the finish but, on handicap, claimed first place overall.

Banjaard (John Falla) and Glory Days (Mark Huntley and Julian Hunt) jockeyed for the placings with the Swan 36, Banjaard, coming in second by just a few seconds.

In the cruiser class, Gordon Wilson in Tomahawk, a Swan 38, and Stuart McKerrrell and Brian Parkin’s Sadler 34 Busker were soon showing the way around the shorter course but would finish only in fourth and sixth place respectively.

David Herschel in his Sadler 26, Glenfruin, joined the regular cruisers after a season out of the island.

He made his mark immediately, crossing the line fourth, but winning on handicap.

Mark Dunster in Dark Horse deserved second on handicap after his disastrous start in the previous race.

Haven Gem (John Squires) suffered a bad spinnaker jam resulting in a fast 10-minute run, barely under control, while the crew struggled to regain command of the situation.

Third over the line and on handicap was the reward.

Just under 100 sailors were taking part in this race, enjoying excellent sailing in the steady and mild conditions.

With four races yet to go, the overall pattern is not yet clear - much can happen, particularly if the winter weather gets a hold.

The next race is Saturday 10 February, starting at 10am at the Castle line.

Article posted on 31st January, 2007 - 12.00am