Europe's Swan around at first travellers event

The first ever Europe open hosted by Black Swan SC, near Reading, was subject to poor weather, and this may have put people off from attending. As it was four Europe's enjoyed a mixture of conditions which made the trip worthwhile.

In the first race Robert Laurie lead the small fleet around for the most of the first lap, however it was the home boat of Paul Robson who took over and showed what a good light winds sailor he is. Caroline Bowen making a return to the class after a number of years away at university, began to find her feet and pulled up into second.

The second race was a repeat performance however Paul and Robert managed to open up a large gap between themselves and Caroline, and the procession continued throughout.

The final race however was a very different affair, with all three boats reaching the windward mark together, and the lead swapped many times during the next two laps. However it was Caroline who benefited from the shifts that the lakeshore provided, and finished ahead of Paul and Robert.

Results

1st Paul Robson 319 Black Swan SC
2nd Caroline Bowen, 361 Oxford SC
3rd Robert Laurie, 344 Harlow Blackwater SC

Chairman's Note:
Although the weather may have deterred some sailors, it was very disappointing that only four sailors attended this one day open. Many members have rightly complained that the class has focused too much on National Ranking, however when a new club agrees to host an open meeting which is publicised, I would have expected more Europe sailors to have made an effort to go.

Clubs will think again about hosting a Europe Open, so unless YOU turn up we shall only be left with National Rankers - you have been warned!