Event Sponsored by Noble, Harken & Typhoon
Fireball Grand Nationals 2013
Day 2
Following some dedicated social fun last night, day 2 of the Fireball Nationals dawned with some nice sunshine and a strong offshore wind.
After the heavens opened and a deluge of fresh water washed yesterdays salt off the waiting boats, the fleet got out to the east side of Looe bay for the days program of 2 championship races.
With a residual swell still running after yesterdays blow, there were some amazing surfing conditions. The wind was playing ball too, with a nice fresh South Westerly blowing in at about 17 knots, making for perfect Fireballing weather.
Another line start greeted the competitors and after a general recall, the black flag was raised and the fleet got away.
After a great battle it was Tom Gillard & Simon Potts who got the win in race one from overnight leaders Birrell & Anderton who came in second, with Chips & Vyv in 3rd.
Following an on water break in freshening breeze, race 2 got away 1st time. A great race ensued in spectacular conditions with lots of place changes amongst the usual suspects. Birrell & Anderton lost second place after their rudder sheared, leaving the door open for Chips & Vyv to take their second win of the championships. Tom Gillard & Simon Potts came in 2nd with Dave Wade and Dan Ellis getting 3rd.
The view from the back of the fleet was equally exciting, with some close racing throughout meaning everyone had someone to try and beat. The conditions tested the boats and the crews thoroughly, with some massive speed on the reaches and some awesome swell to carve a course through upwind.
The Grand Nationals has attracted many sailors from all over the globe. Guy & Barbara Newson came all the way from Caithness, Melanie Lederer & Michael Schaefer travelled from Switzerland but Joe Jospe & Tom Egli win the long distance award having arrived all the way from Canada.
With the entries now up to 49, the class, who held their well attended AGM this evening feels in good health prior to the lay day tomorrow. More sailing Wednesday!
http://fireballsailing.org.uk/upload/Nationals_2013_Day_2_results.htm
