Grande finale

Richards brothers on Radii lead going into UK 18ft skiff final this weekend at Oxford Sailing Club

The final event of the 2006 18ft Skiff UK Grand Prix series takes place this weekend at Oxford Sailing Club on Farmoor Reservoir. The fleet will be sharing a course with the International Canoe fleet. With racing close to shore and easily viewed from the reservoir banks this will be a unique opportunity to see two of the world’s most extreme sailing dinghies racing at close hand.

The racing will be hard and fast. Although Andy Richard’s Radii still leads the Grand Prix standings, following the last round their lead has been greatly reduced. Pete Barton’s Barron and Smithers team are hot on their heels only six points adrift and the ever improving White Stuff helmed by Mason Woodworth a further six points behind. In the high scoring no discard series everything is up for grabs.

With strong wind forecast for the weekend there will be thrills and spills aplenty on the reservoir. Provided the wind isn’t too strong for racing it will be a spectacular event for sailors and spectators alike. First start Saturday 11.30 with four races scheduled, Sunday 10.30 for two races. Boats will be rigging adjacent to club.

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