TOWARD Seasports Club enjoyed a record turnout of dinghies on the water this season as the Aran Series reached race six.
The impressive fleet presented an extra challenge for the race officer, with a dozen different start times required to accommodate the personal handicaps of the competitors.
A light westerly wind provided testing conditions for the sailors, with the breeze tending to come and go throughout the race. The changing conditions made for an interesting contest, particularly for those starting later, who found it difficult to make up ground on the earlier starters.
Some of the heavier, wider-keel boats struggled to make progress in the light winds, while the sleeker dinghies were able to pick up speed and chase their way towards the front of the fleet.
The competitors were also given some unexpected company, with a seal and several porpoises making an appearance to watch proceedings.
The Aran Series race was won by Sgaden, sailed by L Mylod, with Paralell Motion (A Marshall) taking second place and Purple Pixie (K Baird-Dean) finishing third.
The club’s skiff has also been out on the water a couple of times this week as Toward Seasports Club continues its efforts to encourage more people to take up rowing.
The club is currently in the early stages of getting people out in the skiff to give rowing a try, with the aim of developing both a dedicated group of rowers and a wider group of social rowers.
There have already been plenty of happy faces and considerable enthusiasm from those who have taken to the water, with the sessions followed by a welcome cuppa and a chance to chat back at the clubhouse.
Members will have another opportunity to try the skiff this Sunday, when the club is holding a dedicated ‘come and try’ session. Half-hour slots will be available for members to get out on the water and experience the skiff for themselves.
