The series is being led by Sean Gambier-Ross of Kinsale with a 6th and a 1st, followed by Peter McCann (3rd & 9th) and Brendan Lyden (2nd & 11th) both from Royal Cork. Full results here.

The first race started in a fresh breeze that died away and the race was shortened – a big course having originally been set. The second race of the day, held in very light and shifty conditions, was marred by the poor behaviour of a substantial number of sailors who were subsequently disqualified for sculling and paddling.

A not for all in relation to race 2: A total of 15 sailors were disqualified in the second race for sculling or paddling. This number may not have amounted to all sailors who broke the rules on the day as not all numbers were identified. It was also suggested that some sailors also skipped marks to gain advantage.  

The sailors are reminded that sailing is an honour sport with self-policing an integral part of the sport.  The rules state as a basic principle “Competitors in the sport of sailing are governed by a body of rules that they are expected to follow and enforce. A fundamental principle of sportsmanship is that when competitors break a rule they will promptly take a penalty, which may be to retire.”

Sculling and paddling deliberately could be considered to be breach of the “Fair Sailing” rule which states that a disqualification under this rule cannot be excluded from the boat series score. Therefore, the disqualified sailors can consider themselves very lucky that they have been scored DSQ rather than DNE. On a more positive note not all sailors infringed and well done to the many who kept sailing without resorting to sculling.

A briefing will be held prior to racing on Sunday next.