Poole Bay Surprise

The Poole Bay Surprise Race, sponsored by the Poole Harbour Guide, had all the ingredients; sunshine and a good breeze with a BBQ and band organised for the evening.

Sadly the enthusiasm of PYRA members did not match that of the organisers and only 13 boats turned out to complete the interesting courses around various marks in Poole Bay. The plan was a zig-zag course starting with a beat to BP Wych Farm, but as the wind veered to south this became a fetch, thereafter the course was confused. Not as confused as those who hadn’t listened to the courses though, some Class 3 members following Classes 1 & 2 to Bournemouth instead of rounding Jenkins.

Jenkins was missing, being replaced by a small float. Poole Head was missing too, was this the ‘surprise’? Not exactly, when approaching from Bournemouth East Hook isn’t a good replacement for Poole Head and when the alternative was (kindly) announced over the radio back markers had the good fortune of fetching the new buoy. No matter no changes in finishing position resulted.

A finish on the Poole Yacht Club line was an unusual end, which encouraged all in for a drink, some of these stayed on for the evening, many did not. Those that did enjoyed a grand BBQ cooked by John Waters (Songline) and his band of merry men (and women!). After this the amazing Chill played classics, past and present, with the enthusiasts holding out, ensuring a busy dance floor, to the end.