7 Fireball teams turned out to represent the class at the 28th Grafham Grand Prix. Traditionally held on the Sunday between Christmas and New year this years event was a chilly affair. Some adjustments to the fleets from last year saw the Fireball racing against the foiling classes aswell as more traditional boats in the medium handicap. Racing was held on a large trapezoid course.
Race 1 Witnessed a tussle between Kevin Hope and Russell Thorne and Mark and Simon Maskell. Hope and Thorne eventually getting away to take line honours among the Fireballs having given the 505 a good battle.
After lunch Race 2 saw Peter Gray and Simon Forbes lead having squeezed in from the port layline. Again Hope and Thorne battled for the lead, eventually edging in front. Becky Priest and Tim Saunders took third.
When the final result were calculated Hope and Thorne took 3rd overall. Behind a foiling moth and a foiling 600.
It was good to see 2 home boats out racing with the visitors. Grafham Water SC will be hosting the Fireball fleet on the 18th and 19th of April for the annual Fireball open.
