Three visitors joined five local boats for a glorious day’s sailing on the Thames in Wargrave for the National 12 open meeting at Henley SC last Sunday. Despite the good breeze, the trees and geography made the winds gusty and a real challenge for competitors and rescue crews.

In the 1st race John and Mandy Thornton in N3443 got away off the line, making the most of the clear air to extend their lead through the race. There was close racing for 2nd with Mike Day and Anne Murch in N3496, Nigel and Chris White in N3490 and local Steve Gent with Viv Roberts in N2799 all taking turns at the front of the pack. Mike eventually secured 2nd with Steve in 3rd and Nigel 4th.

After a pause for lunch the racing resumed with the Whites getting a great start, closely followed by Mike and Alex Storey in N3274. The Whites were then overhauled by the Thorntons who took the lead. More close racing ensued with Mike and Anne again taking 2nd with Nigel & Chris 3rd (despite a brief swim) and Mike and Alex 4th.

In the final race amazingly, all boats achieved the same result as in race 2, giving the Thorntons the Henley Commodores Cup.

Overall Results
1st N3443, John and Mandy Thornton, Henley SC
2nd N3496, Mike Day and Anne Murch, St Catherines SC
3rd N3490, Nigel and Chris White, Burghfield SC
4th N2799, Steve Gent and Viv Roberts, Henley SC (Admirals Cup prize)