The original format of skippers swapping boats for every race returned to Jackadder but using DF95s instead of the original IOM boats. All participants seemed to enjoy the convivial atmosphere and the challenge of racing a differently tuned boat, proving once more that skipper's skill is more important than boat tuning. This fact is even more pronounced given all boats are identical, unlike the IOMs where different hull designs could be construed as providing the difference in boat performance.
The day started with a superbly crafted sausage sizzle by Rodney, accompanied by a delicious salad selection courtesy of the Odlums. We welcomed 3 visitors from our southern counterparts at Wanderers and Austin Lakes, which we hope is the start of more interclub attendances by all members. This was followed by a respectful 1 minute silence remembering our fallen then an explanation of the day's proceedings, given the format was rather different to what most skippers had experienced. Entries were limited to 12 contestants requiring a total of 12 races being sailed, with every race apart from the first, being sailed with a different boat and no tuning adjustments allowed. Commodore B2 was the PRO with assistance from David O, Bob, Lennie, Warren and others. We had 2 non-DF95 sailors in the form of Denton and Rodney, sailing Bruce Q and Warren's boats respectively.
Prizegiving began with the award of Best Dressed Boat and Best Dressed Skipper, as voted for by the other skippers. Coincidentally, with no sign of money changing hands, both pennants were won by visitor David Jones from Austin Lakes. Then came the award of the Diggers Plate to Peter Greeve for the Top Boat (#97) and the Top Skippers of Bruce Robins (1st), Andrew Donkin (2nd) and Lloyd Coles (3rd). Full race results, along with the race run sheet, are published below providing an insight as to skipper versus boat performance.
Top Boat winner : Peter Greeve with Commodore Bruce Quail