Easter Cup IOM Handicap 2024

Thirteen hardy skippers turned up for the inaugural Easter Challenge. They were greeted by grey skies, light variable wind and drizzling rain which continued for most of the morning. We set the course so we could sail from under the shelter. Most chose to sail in the rain. Six races were completed.

The small fleet allowed us to use the same starting time for both fleets i.e. the IOM and Df65 scratch boats started together.

We welcomed our guest Gary Earl who came equipped with 2 boats, an IOM and a Df65. He intended to race his IOM but IOM gear failure meant the Df65 came out of the car. The sailing Gods looked on Gary favourably. He raced his Df65 very well and took home chocolates and wine. His wife, Gian , likes chocolates so he has a leave pass for Easter Challenge 2025. Congratulations to the other place getters, Paul and Graham. Note that your Commodore and B2W coach finished last!!

Colin had his first win. Yes, Colin had his first win. Special note; Colin had his first win. He was smiling like a Cheshire Cat. Paul generously gave his bottle of wine to Colin. 

Gary's boat failure worked out well for the small IOM fleet. It meant that all the IOM skippers got choccy and wine. All the IOM fleet had to do was to sort out the placings. Well done to Ian, Rob and Trevor - very close points score.

Did you notice that John Mclachlan was a non starter? John's car overheated and he was not able to make it to the harbour. Assistant scorer, Paul, processed the results. Thanks Paul.

We trialed our new (secondhand) WeberQ. Geoff, a house guest of Russell, cooked the snags. A big success. Best sausage sizzle we have had. The BBQ fits snugly in the dinghy trolley together with the gas bottle (Russell donated the bottle). We will sell the old BBQ and stand. If you know anyone who wants a small cheap BBQ, please let me know.

Thanks to the dinghy handlers for fetching and returning the dinghy to the Pool yard.