Broughton takes Pentland Challenge Cup in delayed midsummer regatta
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Pentland Firth Yacht Club's racing programme had identified Saturday, June 25, as the date for the annual midsummer regatta. However, the Caithness weather had different ideas and the wind was blowing hard at 20 to 30 mph from the south-east as the sailors gathered.
Given the enthusiasm of the competitors, the rescue boat crew set up a course in the bay and some of the hardiest set off from the beach. The rescue crew soon decided that a rapid return to shore was required and the club would have to wait for another day to hold the regatta.
It was decided that Saturday, July 2, would be the date for the rearranged regatta. The weather was kind this time, with a gentle breeze from the north at 5 to 10 mph.
Three races were planned for the morning, with David and Marjory Lord on the rescue boat, and a further three races in the afternoon, with Martin Lord and Ian Grant taking their turn in the rescue boat.
The change of date meant that only three boats raced in the morning – David Broughton in a Mirror dinghy, Ian Grant in a Topper and Martin Lord in his Laser. All three races followed a similar pattern, with David Broughton an easy winner in them all, followed by Martin Lord in second place and Ian Grant third.
The afternoon races involved David Broughton (Mirror), Sam Hodgkinson (Topper) and David and Marjory Lord in their Lasers. These races proved much closer with lots of overtaking and Sam, in particular, giving David Broughton a real challenge to his dominance.
Nevertheless it was David Broughton who pulled off another three victories, with Sam second and David and Marjory Lord battling for the minor places.
It was David Broughton who took home the first prize for the regatta and the coveted Pentland Challenge Cup, with Martin Lord second and Ian Grant third. The regatta was very much a fun event and was enjoyed by all.
Anyone wishing to get involved can email the club at pentlandfirthyc@gmail.com
