CHRIS Arnell emerged victorious having headed the hardy few to brave the miserable conditions in the latest round of Christchurch Sailing Club’s Autumn Series last weekend.
A lack of wind had already scuppered two of the four rounds in the Saturday series and while just four competitors took to the water, the gusts were sufficient to finally provide some action.
After being covered by Gary Mehson (Laser) early on, Arnell (RS300) threw in a clearing tack on to port and moved to the front as the wind shifted to the right.
He rounded the windward mark first with Ela Miller (Splash) doing well to keep up with the big sails of Mehson and Richard Beasley (Laser) in the middle of the depleted fleet.
Arnell enjoyed a comfortable success in the end, crossing the finish line a full eight minutes ahead of Mehson and Beasley who enjoyed a ding-dong battle for second spot, the former edging the tussle by 30 seconds.
With average points to be calculated over the next three meetings, it’s all to play for in the overall standings.
Arnell was the only finisher in the Sunday series and leads the way with two race wins out of three so far.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here