Mark and Christine Belshaw

Conditions in the Helford river during Sunday afternoon’s race were nigh on perfect.  A light north easterly breeze, clear blue sky and a warm sun on your back made for one of those memorable days.

Heading away from the start line first were Mark and Christine Belshaw in their Firefly with a 3 minute lead on the next boat in the handicap system.  They rounded the Bosahan mark first, followed by the group of National 12’s led by Phil Philpott and Carrie Hoskins.  Just behind them was Team Sykes in the Enterprise with a hungry fleet of Lasers in the chasing pack.

The fleet stayed in this formation for much of the race.  The Belshaws sailed a magnificent race to stay well ahead despite the incredible efforts from the very competitive National 12’s to catch them.  With just one circuit of the course left, Stuart and Erin Sawyer sailed a determined race to snatch second place from Phil Philpott.  Further back, Team Sykes accepted defeat graciously as one by one, they were passed by the Lasers – Roger McDonald managing to be first Laser home.

Race results:-

• 1^st Mark and Christine Belshaw
• 2^nd Stuart and Erin Sawyer
• 3^rd Phil Philpott and Carrie Hoskins

If you are interested in dinghy sailing with HRSC please call the club office on 01326 231006 for further information.