South West Topper Travellers at Bristol Corinthian Yacht Club

South West Topper Travellers at Bristol Corinthian © James Willis

Twenty one Toppers arrived at Bristol Corinthian Yacht Club on Sunday 17th March 2024 for the first of the 12 South West Topper Travellers scheduled for 2024. It was sunny, still, and for the first time in a long, long time, the reservoir was really full of water after all the recent rain.

When we went out it was light wind and the wind was shifting everywhere. Just before the first start there was a large shift which meant the beat became a reach. On race 2 the course was moved around but there was still a bit of pin bias and a further shift meant on starboard you couldn't get over the line.

This race, and those following, were also made interesting because it was a starboard rounding, a novelty for some sailors. In the start sequence of race 3 the wind suddenly picked up to about F4. The wind direction was similar to race 2 and we all started at the pin meaning it was very crowded.

By race 4 the wind had gone back right a little, meaning you could get across the line on starboard. This was interesting on the start because a few people started on starboard this time.

Throughout the day the wind was constantly shifting so you'd be on the lay line one second and be miles away from it the next. All very interesting for the sea sailors in the fleet.

All of the races were won by Thomas Semmens, with Harry Mills second. Edward Lee was third in the event but wasn't third in all the races. Only a point separated him and Toby Colls in fourth. In the 4.2 fleet it was much more exciting, with first and second places on equal points, only separated on countback.

Emelia Willis winning the last race was just enough to pip Finley Kirkby for the 1,2. Anabelle Moyes took 3rd overall.

Despite the challenging and unpredictable conditions the race officers did a great job and we'll see you at the next event in Fowey on 30th and 31st March. Thanks to the many organisers and helpers who make these events possible and to the club and Clipper Ventures for supplying lots of prizes.

South West Topper Travellers at Bristol Corinthian - photo © James Mills

5.3 Results:

4.2 Results: