From left, Rudy Jurg, class commodore Bruce Huber, artist Heather Kruk and winner Graham Sunderland. Not pictured is second-placed Graham Bailey.
SAILINGGRAHAM Sunderland produced a masterclass performance to win the Illusion Valentine’s Trophy last weekend.
Almost 20 sailors took part in the competition, held in Bembridge Harbour, with Sunderland finishing ten points ahead of his nearest rival, Graham Bailey and 13 ahead of Rudy Jurg.
The author and professional sailor won all three races on the first day of competition
Sunday’s races were held in a more moderate breeze and some sailors had their minds elsewhere, as they followed the America’s Cup action in Valencia.
Piers Thomas won the first race of the day, with Sunderland second and Jurg, third.
For the second race the course was lengthened and positions changed throughout.
In the end, Raymond Simmonds won from Jockey Wilson, second, and Sunder-land, third.
Before the last race, it was clear Sunderland would take home the beautiful painting by Heather Kruk as the overall prize but there was still a battle between Bailey, Jurg and Thomas. Although Thomas had a great start, he lost a few places in the shifty conditions, Jurg lost the plot on the first beat.
After a close race, Bailey finished second, and Jurg., third.