All for charity

El Gringo, G&T and Love in a Mist are winners at the Hamble River SC pursuit race

As a mid-series break from the TYCO Healthcare Hamble Winter Series Hamble River S.C. held its annual Charity Pursuit race last Sunday. In less than ideal conditions, light North-westerly winds and very overcast skies, the Race Officer set a course with numerous short legs around the entrance to Southampton Water. Even so the race had to be shortened at the Hill Head buoy as 12:30 approached. First away at 10:00 was Dermod O'Malley in his Folkboat but conditions did not favour him and he was soon caught by the others. David Greenhalgh & Paul Lovejoy sailing their 1720 G & T were the first boat to finish and they won the Sportsboat division. Next home, two and a half minutes later, was Nick Hartshorn and Hannah Harwood on their Ker 11.3 El Gringo. The rest of the 49 strong fleet finished in a flurry after that.

The prize-giving at the clubhouse afterwards was followed by a charity auction of gifts donated by local businesses. Commodore Ross Elliston cajoled another £850 from the crowded audience. With some donations still to come the club is on course to match last year's donations of £3,000 to be shared between the John Merrick's Trust, the Hamble Inshore Rescue Service and Sail 4 Cancer.

Main Prize winners:

Handicap Class Ker 11.3 El Gringo Nick Hartshorn & Hannah Harwood
Sportsboat Class 1720 G & T David Greenhalgh & Paul Lovejoy
Fancy Dress The Wee Willie Winkie's on board Malcolm Donald's Love in a Mist