Topper Open 2000

The Eastern Region and Nationwide Topper Travellers gathered at Great Moor Sailing Club for an Open meeting on the 24th of September. Despite the dismal weather forecast, 27 boats enjoyed some close racing in difficult conditions. Several young but seasoned campaigners were amongst the 16 visitors. As is becoming the norm for regatta days at Great Moor, two races were sailed back-to-back in the morning, and two more back-to-back after lunch.

Miserable conditions, more like those during the frostbite season -heavy rain, little wind and low temperatures greeted the competitors as the made their way to start the meeting. Race officer, Marc Savitsky struggled to set a course as the very light winds veered from east to south west.

Ian Coppenhall (Hunts) led the first race from start to finish. Hugh Savage (Hickling Broad), Roger Phillips (Great Moor), and Tom Winskell (Stewartby) had a close race behind contesting second place.

In the second race Ian Coppenhall and Hugh Savage extended a lead over the fleet, which was held until the finish. Unfortunately for Hugh, he was disqualified for OCS at the start.

Competitors and Officials alike welcomed the lunch break with a hot meal and the chance to warm up.

By the start of the afternoon races, the wind had steadied to south westerly; although remained light, and the rain eased to provide more pleasant conditions. Race 3 provided the closest finish of the day with the first four boats separated by just two boat lengths. Kyle Paternoster (Grafham Water) opened a lead over the chasing pack. This was gradually whittled away by Alec Savitsky (Great Moor), Richard Valentine (Aylesbury) and Ian Coppenhall. Frantic tacking and covering in the last few yards allowed Alec to slip through and record a win for the home club.

With all to play for in the last race, Roger Phillips led at the first buoy and extended his lead over Kyle Paternoster, Ian Coppenhall and Richard Valentine. Roger held on to win comfortably for the second home win and confirm Great Moor's emerging reputation amongst the topper fleet.

Final Results

1st Ian Coppenhall Hunts 19416
2nd Roger Phillips Great Moor 36726
3rd Kyle Paternoster Grafham Water 41409
4th Richard Valentine Aylesbury 42647
5th Tom Winskell Stewartby 43011
6th Lavinia Paternoster Grafham Water 42666