No getting wet

The Illusion Nationals were held in Bembridge last weekend

20 competitors travelled from as far as Binstead to compete in the light airs of Bembridge Harbour.

Bruce Huber, the incumbent champion, kept it local once again. He merely stepped from one podium position to another. Graham Bailey was equally provincial, but he did almost use his passport for his discard.

Mark Downer and Piers Thomas were far more adventurous, occasionally branching out to the enclaves of mid-fleet and below.

Sunday's straight course and the addition of the 'I' flag meant that no-one could sneak a six-figure penchant (for-risky-starts) without getting rumbled. Well done to the Race Officers.

Last Year Philip Bown finished seventeenth in this event, so his spectacular fifth place this time earned him not only the 'most improved' (by some margin) but also the first 'over sixty five'.

Vernon Stratton, who sailed very well on Sunday was a close contender for the latter prize.

Sue Thomas has learned to sail these boats fast, fast. She won the 'first lady' prize ahead of Julia Bailey.

Barnaby Edwards did scored a third place in one race but no-one (least of all himself) is quite sure why.

Final Results:
1st Bruce Huber
2nd Graham Bailey
3rd Mark Downer
4th Piers Thomas
5th Philip Bown
6th Sue Thomas