Photos From the event available here The Sprint 15 open meeting at Thorpe Bay was overshadowed by Bob Carter the Sprint Association Events Secretary being taken to hospital. Bob Carter is one of the most dynamic sailors in the world of catamaran sailing, and we all wish him a speedy recovery. The event was sponsored by Bluewater Strategies. There were twenty six entries including fourteen from the home TBYC which is now recognised as a major club for the Sprint class. The conditions for the first day were ideal for cat sailors, who generally prefer a brisk wind. The force 4-5 ENE wind, enabled Alan Willis the race officer to set a square course with a windward leg, along the Southend shore. In the first race, the windward mark became separated from its ground tackle, which meant the inflatable buoy drifting downwind towards the committee boat. Some of the sailors spotted this, whilst others sailed into the distance in vain. The first day was dominated by Kevin Dutch (Seasalter SC), Howard Hawkes (Thorpe Bay), and Charles Watson (Halifax SC). After the initial problems with the windward mark, the fleet settled down to some of the most exhilarating sailing that can be had. The Sprints enjoy square courses with two scintilating close reaches. The second day started with a pro-am race. This is an unique feature of the Sprints whereby the fleet leaders will each take a "novice" to give on-the-water tuition. The winner of this race was Nick Miller (Marconi SC). After the pro-am race, the open meeting resumed. This time, the wind was less than on Saturday. But there were a few capsizes nonetheless. The Saturday leaders were made to struggle, where Peter Tovey (Marconi SC) and Chris Maloney, John Long, Martyn Ellis (all TBYC) showed they had a few tricks to play. The Saturday entertainment was a meal in the clubhouse followed by a riotous singalong with Soggy Doggie with his guitar. The winner of the Pro-Am race was Nick Miller (Marconi SC).  Thorpe Bay TT Winner: Kevin Dutch  Exciting Momment!  Racing at Thorpe Bay Results:Full Series Results available here
Windsport Voucher Winners:
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