Miracle Nationals at Plas Heli - Day 1
by Brian Jones 7 Aug 2016 20:24 UTC
7-12 August 2016
Close moment on day 1 of the Miracle Nationals at the Plas Heli © Tom Donaldson
The gale tried to blow itself out during the night, but only partly succeeded.
Sunday morning dawned bright and the eager competitors from both the Miracles and Signets briefed and rigged for the practice race. Launching into the bay was easy and the ride outside exciting. The fleet got away cleanly despite the tide trying to carry over the line.
After a short beat Jon and Philip Aldhous led Wayne Atherton and Angela Sweeney surfing off to the wing mark until on the final downwind they lost the lead.Then due to a misunderstanding re the finish gate the Aldhouse duo took the gun. Yvonne and Brian Mumford were always close behind taking third with Simon Redicliffe and Mark Atherton narrowly losing fourth to Dave and Ross Southwell.
The first points race was later postponed due to the wind rising above the agreed fleet limits. Tomorrow's forecast looks more promising.