Race 3 of the Brass Monkey Spring Series, sponsored by Tadg Riordan Motors, delivered a real test of patience and adaptability for both crews and Race Management, with a wide variety of conditions encountered throughout the day.

Departing the marina, optimism was in short supply. The forecast suggested very light winds, and there was genuine doubt as to whether any racing would be possible at all. However, once North Star was positioned for the start using Course 5, there was just enough breeze — around 3–4 knots from the northeast — to attempt at least a short race.

Course 5 displayed marks D, H, W and beyond, though an early decision was made that if boats managed to reach W, the course would be shortened there. It quickly became apparent that this was unlikely, and a finish at D was briefly considered. One particularly quick boat rounded D before the rest of the fleet had properly settled, forcing a rethink. The new plan: shorten the course at H.

By then, the wind had eased further to around 2 knots, while the tide steadily increased. The result was what is likely the largest elapsed time difference ever recorded in what was expected to be a short race. Flexit eventually managed to beat Out and About by an astonishing 2 hours, 26 minutes and 25 seconds, with Terry scraping inside the time limit by just three minutes.

The tide caused absolute havoc at the finish. Several boats crossed the line almost sideways, having been swept past it and forced to battle back against the current to finish correctly — a true test of boat handling and perseverance.

These extraordinary conditions will undoubtedly shake up the results, leaving everything still to play for passing the halfway stage of the series. The sun made a brief final appearance — a small but welcome bonus after a long and memorable day on the water.

Full Results

Race Report & Photo credit, Derek Bothwell

Additional Photo Gallery, Judith Malcolm