Hastings & St Leonards sailors take chance to get back on water

After a month without sailing in lockdown and a drop in temperature, it was the club’s hardy salts that took possibly the last opportunity of the year to compete. Winds were force three from the north east, backing northerly and decreasing as the racing progressed.

The day belonged to Hugh Ashford in a Laser – he won all three races and the competition.

Ashford was in sparkling form in all areas: his starts were good, tacking decisions astute and boat speed maximised. Rarely was he troubled by other sailors as he was clear ahead in all but one of the races when Philip Blurton and Merle Jeffries in a Tasar overtook on the reach and snatch line honours, though not victory when handicaps were applied.

Roy Sandford in a Laser Radial was in good form with two seconds and second overall. Third in the competition was closer with Melanie Clark (Laser Radial) and Blurton and Jeffries (Tasar) each taking a third place in one race. When positions in other races were taken into account, a second place for Sergio Velluti (Laser 4.7) in the final race gave him third overall.

Sailing was competitive, but everyone taking part was simply relieved to get out on the water again.

The winter sunshine and flat grey sea made it a beautiful experience for those taking part and for supporters watching from the shore. The club may yet hold some more ad hoc sailing over the winter depending on conditions.