10/10/2024
Bart’s Bash 8th September 2024
Sun and 20-25knts of wind from the north east greeted the Radio Controlled Model Yacht Sailors on Wednesday at BHYC in aid of the Andrew Simpson Foundation – and what became, for some, an appropriately named Bart’s Bash.
20 sailors joined to give us 5 teams of 4 boats each representing BHYC, Ryde and Brook Model Boat Clubs.
The racing was in the form of a relay. The line was set between the pontoons with a buoy in the middle, starting on the eastern half and finishing over the western side. As the first boat crossed the finish their teammate started until all 4 had completed the relay.
A windward mark was laid followed by different length courses for the 3 classes of yachts in an attempt to give similar times on the water for all.
The Marbleheads from Ryde were the first to start, passing the baton to the Brook One Design’s then back to the second Marblehead and finally to the DF65’s from BHYC.
For those used to racing on lakes the strong wind and waves added an extra dimension enjoyed by those with well maintained yachts, however the conditions brought about a number of retirements ,with substitutions adding to the difficulty of recognising your team mate at hand over.
The day was won by Team 2 – Barry Watkin (RMYC), Colin Bass (BMYC), Eric Heydon (RMYC) & Todd Baker (BHYC), the only team not to substitute a boat, with a convincing score of 3 firsts, 2 seconds, 1 third and a fourth as a discard.
The day was completed by fine food & drink from the galley and bar.
A big thank you to all who took part, helped run or just enjoyed watching and for contributing over £220 to Bart’s Bash.
