Three of the regular entries were missing on race day 12 of Wick Model Yacht Club’s centenary year so members were pleased to see Thor being entered by Lewis Campbell, who has decided to sail her until the end of the season.
The strong winds of Friday night Saturday morning had eased somewhat to around 25-30 mph just off the south as the five 4ft yachts lined up for tacking up the loch.
Tempest, Thor and Aurora had the best starts, with Thor holding a very high line. Barracuda and Restless Wave had trouble on their third tack getting round the Chicken Rock point, leaving them some way behind.
Tempest had a great home run, going end to end, leaving the others well behind, and couldn’t be caught. Aurora had the best run of the next two and Thor had a respectable third.
Result – Race one: 1 Tempest (Innes Scollay and David Sutherland), 22 min 47 sec; 2 Aurora (Archie Miller), 26.38; 3 Thor (Lewis Campbell), 27.07; 4 Restless Wave (Graham and Adam Robertson), 28.08; 5 Barracuda (Allan Tait and James Robertson), 37.37.
Race two started similarly but, having made some adjustments, Restless Wave had a much better setting.
It was Tempest again that led the way to the top, followed closely by Restless Wave. Thor again had a good first leg.
Tempest turned first and was looking unstoppable but unfortunately the yacht was too quick for the sailors and lay at the side of the loch until it could be caught up with.
Restless Wave meantime was flying down, closing the gap all the time. Both yachts landed at the point at the burn and it was Restless Wave that managed to get round the point first to claim the win.
Thor had another good home run, getting third place again.
Results – Race two: 1 Restless Wave (Graham and Adam Robertson), 25 min 05 sec; 2 Tempest (Innes Scollay and David Sutherland), 26.16; 3 Thor (Lewis Campbell), 27.25; 4 Aurora (Archie Miller), 35.00; 5 Barracuda (Allan Tait and James Robertson), 40.55.
Racing will continue this Saturday with a start time of 1pm. All visitors and sailors are welcome.
