First time for many

The UK Phantom fleet kicked off their season with a blustery open at Haversham SC

The first Phantom open of 2006 held at Haversham SC, Milton Keynes attracted 15 boats despite a poor forecast and very strong gusty winds.

The results were a reflection of those who had maintained their winter sailing programme, while the others who were using the event to kick start their 2006 season got a litle more than they had bargained for. The result being a soggy days yachting.

Andy Couch continued his winning form with two first places and one second, closely followed by Will Gulliver with a first, second and DNF. Richard Pakes led home the locals in third overall after progressing throughout the day, acheiving a fourth, third and finally a second place.

Only Pete Evans of the remaining helms finished two races, with most resorting to the galley and shoreside photography.

The circuit now moves on to Norfolk, with Denver SC hosting a training day followed by an Open Meeting on 8-9 April.

Results:

Pos	Helm	Club	Tot
1st	Andy Couch	RYA	2
2nd	Will Gulliver	Northampton SC	3
3rd	Richard Pakes	Haversham SC	5
4th	Richard Parkin	Hunts SC	7
5th	Brian Glen	Lyme Regis SC	9