The 2006 team racing series for the Stewart Morris Trophy took place on 4th June, and the teams were greeted by a warm and sunny day. The Society had imported some distinguished members, including its past and current presidents, and the stage was set for a fine match.
In a light and patchy wind, race-officer Jim Jerwood and his family team set windward-leeward courses of two-laps, somehow finding space at low-water. Itchenor won the first race as the visitors took their time to get to grips with the boats. The following three races went to the Society, although the lead changed hands during the races.
Ashore for lunch, and then in a slightly firmer breeze, a short start-line, and a harbour which seemed to be full of passing cruisers unsure of when and why the fleet might be manoeuvring, battle recommenced. The Society, who clearly had not been bought enough beers over the break, took the next two races. Race 7 went convincingly to Itchenor, but the Society then wrapped up the result with a further win. So the Society retained the trophy for a third consecutive year.
As always the end result does not show just how close the racing was, with much activity on those short final beats swinging the wins. Team racing tactics were what made the difference in the end, and the home team (and indeed the rustier Society members) were much more aware of the tactical possibilities by the end of the day. It had been a typically excellent, close fought and enjoyable event, and we look forward to seeing how next year’s match goes.
With thanks to owners for loan of the boats and to the “minders” Sue Glover, Steve Hammet, Carol Thompson, Chris David, Tony Offredi and Nick Fenner.
Teams
Itchenor Swallows: Carolyn Brigg, Chris Creak , John Houghton , Guy Knight , Simon Slater, Richard Thompson.
Oxford & Cambridge Sailing Society: Peter Andreae, Will Henderson, Iain Macdonald-Smith, Nigel Masding, Robin Nott, and Andrew Reid.
Andrew Reid
