Scotts of Greenock Trophy – 17th May 2014

The above event was held at Murdieston Dam on Saturday 17th May.

11 IOM skippers turned out to be met with a south westerly wind which increased in strength as the day wore on, producing gusty conditions. Most skippers started the day on No.2 rigs however one or two brave souls tried their top rig, but not for long! It was not long before the strong wind was joined by heavy rain which continued throughout the day making conditions extremely unpleasant.

A windward /leeward course was set which, apart from adjustments to the start/finish line, was used all day. 12 races were completed before lunch, by which time, due to a combination of the conditions, broken boats, and broken spirits, the fleet had been reduced to 6. After lunch 8 races were sailed and by the conclusion of racing at 15.00 the fleet had been further reduced to 4 boats.

Not surprisingly the winners came from those who braved the conditions to the bitter end. Bruce Davidson, who sailed consistently well throughout the day, ran out the clear winner, with Robert Rooney second, and David Stewart, on his first visit to Greenock third. Pat Johnston who also had sailed well during the morning, might well have been in contention but, perhaps wisely, he was one of those who decided to withdraw at lunch time.

This is an event that will be remembered perhaps more for the horrible weather, rather than the sailing, however the clubhouse banter also contributed to what was an eventful day.

Gordon Rae.