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NOTTS COUNTY LASER OPEN 2011
The weather was set fair for July 10th but all week the winds were being forecast as light at best. Despite this 40 lasers took part, a great turn-out considering the conditions. The event is part of the Midlands Area Travellers Series and attracted entries from all over the Midlands, and beyond.
This year the event was sponsored by MORTON BOATS, EMBROIDERY DESIGN SOLUTIONS, GILL, HOLT and PINNELL AND BAX whose generosity enabled the organisers to spread the prizes throughout the fleet, majoring on the juniors and ladies.
The forecast was accurate with shifty 2-4 knot variable winds. RO Nadina Lincoln found it difficult to set a course for the 1st race. With the leading Lasers from Notts County missing the event was wide open and the visitors took full advantage. All 40 boats got off the start line at the first attempt. Peter Newberry got a fantastic start and opened up an early lead. Peter couldn’t hold on however and was slowly hauled in by Craig Williamson and Rich Bennett who finished 1st and 2nd respectively.
The 2nd race was scheduled for 1.30pm but was postponed on the line as the wind disappeared completely. Fortunately a light wind filled in and the start sequence was signalled. Half the fleet were over the line at the gun and a general recall was posted. The fleet got away second time but four boats were black flagged including Peter Newberry, lead radial Joe Scurrah and lead lady Rebecca Ogden. Rich Bennet took the race from Paul Williamson and Craig Williamson. Rob Marshall from Notts County hung on for fourth place.
The 3rd race was held back to back and featured an Olympic style course which was well received. Rich Bennett fell back to 7th place leaving the door open for Paul Williamson to take the race and the regatta overall. Rich’s earlier results secured him 2nd overall. Paul Williamson secured regatta 3rd spot and the Masters title. Alex Piggot took 3rd place in the last race to clinch 4th overall. Joe Scurrah easily won the radial class and Rebbeca Ogdon was comfortably the best lady. Mick Steer finished 9th overall to take the Grand Master title. Peter Anderson finished a creditable 14th place to take the Junior title.
