Surrounded by the stunning Pennine hills boats gathered for the annual Dovestone Flying Fifteen open meeting.
On Saturday using the fleet PY handicaps, three races were sailed back-to-back. The rain came down, there was thunder and the wind was generally quite strong at around F4 gusting at times. Using the full length of the reservoir this produced great sailing including an exhilarating two sail fetch and fast deep spinnaker runs.
The 4065 team of David McKee and Mal Hartland had a good day recording 3 bullets. They were followed by 4150 Andrew McKee and Ben Thackray with 2 seconds and a 3rd. In race two the beautiful wooden classic GILMAC 485 of Graham Sharp and Ralph Smith had an outstanding race with a 2nd place. In the third race there was a strong performance from Alex Beach and Mike Hale, first timers in a Flying Fifteen sailing the club’s 2804 who scored a 4th place. 3805 Graham Massey and Martin Brennan came 3rd in the first race.
Whilst the racing had been great, it had been a cold day on the water and crews were pleased to pack up and soak in the steamy showers to recuperate for the evening social. This included a fine pie supper, and entertainment was provided by the “Ship to Shore shanty singers”.
Sunday’s weather was much brighter with blue skies and sunshine, although the F3 breeze still had a chill to it. Two races were sailed back-to-back. At the front David and Mal shared a 1st and 2nd with Andrew and Ben.
In race four, the new ‘home team’ of Ian Lees and Dave Hill in 3626 found their mojo with a 3rd place. Graham and Ralph in 485 were placed 3rd in the last race to complete a good overall score for the event. One of the most consistent crew was 3784 Nick and Claire Taylor who counted a 3rd and four 4ths for a third place in the event.
Overall, the sailing was great, the company was good and the event a great success. Thanks were given to the guests that travelled from as far away as the NW coast of Scotland and Nottingham.
Full results https://www.dovestonesc.org.uk/results/2026/ffopen.htm
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