SAILINGFROST and icy conditions did not deter 28 hardy Illusion sailors from racing for the Ice Breaker Trophy from Bembridge Sailing Club.
With so many boats on the line and with the tricky wind conditions the battle for position started early. Both Piers Thomas and Rudy Jurg broke clear and built up a big lead to take race one.
In race two Mark Downer was back to his usual form and took top place — just edging out Philip Bown —who sailed magnificently to clinch second.
Ian Southworth snuck in to claim the last podium place.
Saturday’s last race began with a pile up at the committee boat end after the fleet was pushed up by Graham Sunderland and Justin Biddle. While the lead changed several times, with Raymond Simonds and Ian Southworth both hitting the front at times, Justin Biddle just clinched it at the end from Ian, with Piers in third.
Sunday’s first race still bought 22 starters to the line for another three fabulous, if chilly, races. Mark showed he is the king in heavier weather and took first place in all but last race, with the only real challenge coming from Graham Sunderland, who took the last race and came second in the first two.
Piers Thomas was determined to get a top finish and with good boat speed and height got third in all three races (netting him the runner up spot overall). Philip Woodford, who is in his late seventies and seemingly immune to the cold, showed moments of brilliance.
Thanks as always go to the race team of Mike Samuelson and Robert Owen. Racing this weekend is for the Piers January Jacket Trophy.