Fifes in the fog

An update from the Fife Regatta on the Clyde, with images from Marc Turner

Race 2 of the 2008 Fife regatta must have been something of a relief for owners and
insurers alike as the anticipated strong winds and rain did not materialise. In front of a
reduced spectator fleet the 20 strong armada of antique elegance made a stately
procession up the Firth of Clyde under full sail. With a running start from Largs the
small boats leading the procession were soon mingling with the largest. Altair, Mariette,
Maraquita and Moonbeam, with a collective age of almost 400 years old, setting great
clouds of sail as they glided through the fleet, creating a an unforgettable sight and
depriving their little sisters ahead of what wind there was. There was just sufficient wind
to get the fleet safely to their destination of Rhu Marina. Some of the world’s top marine
photographers snapped busily for the whole journey.

On the 96ft and 97year old Mariquita, the topmast crewman in the absence of a crow’s
nest was observed having a relaxing day in these conditions reclining horizontal on the
top spreader.

As Monday is a lay-day there is a possibility that the anticipated adverse weather may not may miss them entirely.

On Tuesday 24 the fleet will race from Helensburgh to Rothesay where they will grace
the bay until Thursday when they race around Bute and back to Largs.

More photos on the following pages....