Although the weather was
not too kind on the day, four teams representing
the Royal Dee, Trearddur Bay, Royal Mersey and
West Kirby Clubs arrived at Plas Menai on the
shores of the Menai Straits for the second Royal
Dee Keelboat Challenge. With enthusiasm
undampened, the teams took to the water to race
against each other in a round robin event
overseen by Mike Butterfield (IRO). Under his
expert guidance each team pitted themselves
against every other team. Mike had planned two
rounds therefore allowing each team to race
against each other twice.
Race 1 started at 10.00 with the starting gun fired from Alan & Angela Prices 'Bacardee' and the windward mark patrolled by Rob & Mary Elliotts 'Tantrum'. With the teams based on the water with changeovers being made afloat, the racing followed swiftly, not allowing anyone to get left out of the action. RO Mike B. ran an impecable series, with him and his team not putting a foot wrong during the whole event. Eight races followed with one team showing their dominance from the early stages. However racing was close and fair with few penalties given by the on the water umpires, David Taylor & Dave Battye. With the event raced in J80's everyone had a thoroughly enjoyable time and The Royal Dee would like to express its thanks to the hosts, Plas menai, to the Race team aboard the two committee boats and the Rib drivers and Umpires for there untiring efforts during the day.
Special mention must go to Mike Butterfield. Royal Dee and all the competitors would like to thank him for giving up his valuable time. Thanks.
Following on from the racing, Derek & Janet Matthews called everyone to the prize giving were West Kirby were presented as victors with 'The Pelegrina Trophy'. Immediatly thereafter was a sailing supper in the dining room of Plas Menai. The resident Chef had prepared a hearty three course meal for all, with the days excitement being relived with knives, forks, salt and pepper pots. Just how did West Kirby do THAT! The full result is;
West Kirby
6 wins
Royal Dee
4 wins
Royal Mersey
1 win
Trearddur Bay 1
win