A hardy group of sailors, race officials and safety crews ventured out to test the waters on New Year’s Day. Greeted by a fresh westerly wind blowing in the high teens to mid twenty knot gusts, the race committee, led by PRO, Jim Lambkin, set up an Olympic Course aiming for a quick 45’ race.

Aided by a strong ebb tide, the fleet -- comprising three ILCAs, three Melges, one RS 400 and an Aero -- were well behaved on the line, and started cautiously as a combined mixed fleet. The fresh conditions and possibly post New Year’s Eve celebrations were not long taking a toll, with two ILCA peeling off after lap one and heading for home. The more adventurous Melges continuing had some spectacular sailing and wipe outs with kites set on the reaches, more so for one ending in a rather unplanned and lengthy New Year's Day swim.

Line honours went to Daragh Sheridan in the Aero, followed closely by the Melges, the race having been shortened at the weather mark on the third round much to the relief of all. Full marks to Evan and the safety boat crew team who managed rescue particularly well in tricky conditions.

The ‘apres sail’ feedback was good with the Club specialty of hot soup and toasted sandwiches much in demand as an aid to recovery for both sailors and race personnel alike.

-- Report by Jim Lambkin, photos courtesy of Paddy Judge