6 visiting Leaders joined the 2 local boats at Hickling Broad SC for a glorious two day open event on 18 – 19 May. The weather conditions and warm welcome made for an excellent start to the 2002 open series. See also the Photo Gallery !

Saturday’s racing took the form of two passage races - to Potter Heigham Bridge and back - in a pleasant Force 3 breeze with a few unpredictable Force 4 gusts.

Local helms Jane Pye and John Parker, along with Nationals winner, Mike Sherwen led the fleet for much of the way, before Parker extended a convincing lead to win ahead of Jane Pye and Ian Brae in 2^nd place and Mike and Val Sherwen in 3^rd. Bob Rhodes and Paul Dickenson flying the new asymmetric spinnaker wherever possible were never far behind.

Suitably refreshed, the crews left Potter Heigham on a running start. Spinnakers were hoisted and much jostling for position ensued. Pye pullled away, closely followed by Mike Fitzgerald and Tim Dormer, John Parker and Robin Rosser and Chris and Jane Wharmby. When the teams reached the open Broad again Pye held the lead, followed by Parker, Wharmby and Fitzgerald. Parker, caught by a strong gust at the gybe mark, capsized and Wharmby took the opportunity to take 2^nd place, but Parker’s recovery was so quick that he managed to beat Fitzgerald over the line by half a boat length.

Sunday’s racing was in traditional ‘round the cans’ format. Parker took line honours in Races 3 and 4 with daughter Jane in 2^nd place.

The final race saw Roger Morse and Mike Carroll and Jason and Emma Jackson get off to a flying start. The Jacksons stayed with the race leaders for the duration and finished in 4^th place behind Sherwen, Fitzgerald and Wharmby.