In contrast with many one design classes, the Water Wags hold regular handicap races during the sailing season. On 16th May the first handicap race was held with 24 boats competing. The plan for the evening was for Division 2 boats to start on the start gun, Division 1B three minutes later and Division 1A boats two and a half minutes later.
On the first beat from the marina entrance to the harbour mouth there was a strategic decision to be made, head towards the west pier where the wind was stronger, and a stronger foul tide, or head to the middle of the harbour where both wind and tide were lighter. Chloe sailed by Amy O’Leary took the latter course which initially was a lonely route, as most opted for the stronger wind. They were overall winners. Second around the first mark was Penelope sailed by Fergus Cullen and Alice Walsh. They were unable to hold their place and were passed by David and Ann Clarke in Swallow. In Division 1B Freddie sailed by Barbra Stewart was an early leader but soon overtaken by Mademoiselle sailed by Adam Winkleman who finished in 4th overall.
In Division 1A Ethna sailed by Bill Nolan led initially, but Vela sailed by Philip Mayne and Brian Bond pulled through, to finish in 12th overall.
Nothing beats sailing in the harbour in traditional dinghies in 6-10 knots of wind when the sun shines.