Close run thing at Sarclet
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Valhalla approaching the finish line in first position during race two at Sarclet Loch.
THERE was some very competitive racing at the Wick Model Yacht Club’s meeting at Sarclet Loch.
Mid-sized sails were fitted to the vessels to cope with the strong breeze blowing almost directly up the loch.
The boats set off into the oncoming wind but as they approached the point the weeds slowed up their passage. Once clear of this area sailing proceeded as normal, with boats tacking twice to the far end.
The Apollo had the advantage and was the first to fit a spinnaker on its starboard side for the return.
The Firewood and Valhalla chose to fit there spinnakers on the port side. This choice proved successful as both hugged the short side whereas the Apollo headed into the “hole” allowing both the Valhalla and Firewood to recoup some of the lost ground.
The ensuing finish was very close with only three seconds separating the vessels.
Results: 1, Firewood, sailed by Lewis Paterson, 23m 06s; 2, Apollo, sailed by Ben McKinnon, 23.09; 3, Valhalla, sailed by Katie McKinnon, 24.16.
In the second race the yachts were not sailing as high into the wind as before, and this time only required just a single tack. On the return, with spinnakers fitted, an increase in wind strength seemed to affect the Apollo more than the others, which hugged the short shore as before.
The Valhalla passed the Firewood whose spinnaker boom unhooked causing erratic sailing.
Results: 1, Valhalla, sailed by Sandy Bremner and Raymond Muir, 24.32; 2, Firewood, sailed by Kevin Paterson, 24.59; 3, Apollo, sailed by Donald McWilliam and Willie Thomson, 27.20.
Tomorrow is the last day of the 2011 season. Racing starts at 2pm. For more details check visit wmyc.site90.com
