Final account

Andy Beadsworth reports on his last race at the Holland Regatta

Final race - wind 2-6 knots Variable.

As we tried to sail out to the start the wind shut down completely. It was probably impossible to get to the start line without a tow.

In the end we started towards the right, Loof two lengths to leeward and Kusznierewicz
tight to windward. 15 seconds to go and another boat came from behind with a lot of speed and luffed us as we were trying to accelerate. A poor start although both Kusznierewicz and Loof were in a similar predicament. We were never far from each other but the wind was strange, big holes and shifts. We were ahead of Kusznierewicz but just astern of Loof. Then Kusznierewicz managed to sail from directly astern to a length to windward and bow to bow. Crazy. However we were all mid-fleet and not good enough for us to get second. We took some risk and tried to get back but ended up
in a hole with no wind - parked, as Kusznierewicz sailed past us some ten lengths away. We finished 13th, I think Loof managed 6th and Kusznierewicz 9th.

So the results stood.

Loof
Kusznierewicz
Beadswworth/Carr

Third overall in our first European regatta, and our first regatta in 8025. Generally the Brits did well in Holland with quite a few podium places. The team was awarded the best overall team performance at the regatta and it was good to be part of a British success in Holland. We are pleased but at the same time a little disappointed. Second was up for grabs and slipped through our fingers. The photo finish in race seven was costly.

However, in the big picture we have had good speed upwind in all conditions, downwind in most except the heavy air. We have been tactically smart with few mistakes, our starting has been erratic and need work. We have a good foundation on which to move forward into the European Championship.

We were planning to sail Kiel Week and do some training before, but have had to cancel due to a lack of funds. Both David and I will be working trying to earn some money instead. We have organised some training with Loof, and Mendleblatt before the Europeans in August which will be very valuable, but we will need to try and spend some more time in the boat before then if we are to be successful.

We will have to sail our best, with no room for mistakes.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those that have helped us this far, especially those who have contributed to the campaign. The help is invaluable and with out it we would not be here.

Thanks

Andy and Freddie