RTYC v RYS report

THAMES TEAM NARROWLY LOSES TO SQUADRON IN TEAM RACING AT COWES

 On a weekend of sunshine and sparkling breezes in Cowes (5/6 June), an RTYC club level team took on a crack Squadron team in 3 boat team racing, in our jointly-owned J80 fleet.

Team Captain, Richard Hill, led the team from the front in a close and hard-fought contest. However, despite the best efforts of helms Amelia Boadle, Henry Arnold and Richard Hill, the team narrowly lost to the Squadron team led by Jamie Sheldon. There was considerable discussion of the rules – both on and off the water.

Onshore, we were treated to some outstanding hospitality from RYS, the highlight of which was a barbeque on the beach at the home of Mike and Teri Macmillan (previously the beach house of Queen Victoria). Jamie and Susie Sheldon provided delicious organic burgers from their own farm. Our thanks to the Squadron race management team, led by Peter Hunter, who ran a tight race programme, allowing time for a late lunch and relaxed drinks on the clubhouse terrace.

The departing Thames team wished the Squadron luck in the international team racing event which they were hosting later in the week. The weekend highlighted how the J80 fleet has improved the team racing capability of both clubs, and all agreed that a return match at the end of the season would be an excellent idea.