THE third race of the Spring Handicap series at Arden Sailing Club, Defford took place on Sunday.

The weather was once again very challenging. Just as the race was about to be started a particularly vicious squall came through, with those already sailing struggling to maintain control and others reluctant to set off the start was delayed. This proved to be a good move as in ten minutes the storm passed and the race was started in very windy but reasonable conditions.

Eric Ison (Laser) and Niall Campbell and Jane Smee (Enterprise) were first away but Ison miss read a gust letting Dave Harris (Solo) through within yards of the start. These positions were maintained until the end of lap one when a capsize by Dave Harris forced him to retire.

Lap two saw Niall Campbell and Jane Smee capsize giving Eric the lead, which he successfully defended till the finish. Niall Campbell and Jane Smee finished second with Dave and Pauline Appleby (GP14) third having maintained steady but upright progress throughout.

The taster day has been arranged for Sunday, April 18, commencing at 10am with a demonstration race at 1.30pm. There will be experienced instructors to take people out both before and after this.

For further details contact Helen 01905 23298 or Ray 01386 554109 or pop along to the site on a Sunday afternoon and have a look around.