Day 2 of the HYC Brass Monkeys Winter Series

18 November 2025
Day 2 of the HYC Brass Monkeys Winter Series
 
This was the second day of the Brass Monkey Series, and competitors were treated to a fresh north-easterly chilly breeze — but at least it was dry! We had 19 boats across three fleets crossing the start line in well-behaved fashion for the 5.5 nm Course No. 3.
 
The wind held at around 15 knots, gusting to 20 at times, with a very lumpy sea. Conditions on board North Star were lively enough to prompt one crew member to call upon that great goddess of the deep, Ruth — or perhaps it was Huey — for a short period.
 
We achieved a little over 60 minutes on Course 3 for the early finishers, which many felt was quite sufficient considering the sea state.
 
 
Near the end of racing, we received a VHF call reporting a MOB incident at the W mark. A RIB was dispatched to offer assistance, followed shortly by a further call confirming the crew member was safely back on board — wet and cold, but not in any danger.
 
So, a bit of drama on the water, but nothing the Brass Monkey stalwarts can’t handle!
 
Full results here.
 
Report & images: Derek Bothwell