PHANTOMS AT COTSWOLD SC (13th May 2006)

12 visitors joined boats from the host club to give a total turnout of 14 for the Cotswold SC Phantom Open. As well as counting for the main travellers series this event also counted towards the south west area travellers series. The day started in bright but almost windless conditions. By the start of the first race a slight SW breeze had kicked in. The first race was started cleanly except for Battersby, who was required to visit the right side of the start line. The wind just about held through the first race which saw Harmsworth sail into a reasonable lead only to be duped by the shifty conditions allowing Young to catch up. After some close racing between the lead boats the race finished with Young a boat length in front of Harmsworth, followed by Smith, Banning and Battersby, who had recovered well after the start.

The wind decreased further whilst the Phantom sailors did what they do best; eat some lunch. After a fantastic cheese ploughman’s the conditions had not improved. The second race was started cleanly despite the shifty light airs. After a busy first beat Harmsworth led and steadily increased his lead leaving the following pack to fight over the light airs. The race finished with Harmsworth first, who in his own words said I might be big but I drift well, nobody could argue with that. He was followed by Young, Battersby, Heusen and Barnstable.

The third race was started back to back with the second race. The wind situation had greatly improved although Battersby's start had not, he was again required to visit the right side of the start line. A reasonable breeze had now developed. The first to round the windward mark was Fulcher followed by Smith and Young who all pulled away from the pack. During the first lap Young had passed Smith and was pushing Fulcher. During a tactical manoeuvre from Fulcher rounding a wing mark Young made contact and was required to take a penalty allowing Smith to pass. The front positions did not change despite some close moments and the race finished with Fulcher, Smith, Young, Harmsworth and Banning.

The day was enjoyed by all and had been well run despite the varying conditions. During the prize giving Fulcher stated how shocked he was that so many islands (3) fitted into a small lake. Following the tea, cakes, prize giving and a rest looking at the wonderful view that is CSC, the worst part of the day was about to start, the long drive home.

CSC would like to thank all the visitors that attended the event, and all those involved in organising and running the day. CSC look forward to welcoming you all again next year.

1^st Gavin Young 1201 (Cotswold SC), 2^nd Tyler Harmsworth 1174 (New Haven & Seaford SC), 3^rd Russel Smith 1177 (Bowmoor SC), 4^th Neil Fulcher 1193 (Stone SC), 5^th Roger Battersby 1210 (Sutton Bingham SC)