North East Clubs 2008 Late Series Summary report

This series had 16 participating skippers in the three events held over October to December 2008 at Brechin, Aberdeen and Buchanness. This year no events were lost to the weather although both Brechin and Buchanness saw the event run in very strong winds.
The level of participation remained at the level seen in the early 2008 winter series with an average fleet size of 9 boats. To make the event more interesting this year and to encourage skippers to travel to neighbouring clubs, Club scores were introduced in addition to the normal individual scores. The best 3 results would be taken for each club at all 3 events. If a club did not have 3 participants then missing places were scored dns (number of entrants +1). The experience of the new club scores seems to be positive and has had the advantage that more experienced skippers are coaching other club skippers and passing on their experience. The rule “no outside assistance” has been dropped in order to encourage coaching.

Several skippers volunteered to be involved in the race organisation which is one of the objectives of the winter series.

The worthy winner of the series was Ian Dundas from Aberdeen sailing his Elliott Widget with wins at Brechin and Buchanness. Ali Law from Buchanness who won at Aberdeen came second in the series displacing Brian Robertson on count back with Steve Taylor only one point behind in fourth. Colin McGinniss and Colin Deakin both showed just how much they are improving with regular top three finishes.

The next 3 race Winter Series is scheduled to be held at Brechin on 10th January 2009, Aberdeen on 14th February 2009 and Buchanness on 14th March 2009. All skippers will be very welcome.

Overall Results for the 2008 Early Series:

The Club Scores saw Buchanness coming out on top:

Overall results sheet (pdf)