Report by Matt Aston

Nearly 30 intrepid Contenderer’s ventured down to the Sussex seaside for round 4 of the TT Series,

as the class returned to Eastbourne Sovereign SC after an 8 year absence.

The fleet were greeted by a 25kts+ breeze and nasty shore break but after an hour postponement and plenty of competitive bravado a depleted fleet of 21 boats took to the high seas.

Once on the water the weather conditions seemed to settle down to a sunny and more than manageable F4, however only 2 races were completed.

Race 1 and whilst most of the fleet headed out to sea off the start-line, Langdown opted for the opposite side of the course and was fortunate to find it to his liking. A big shift on the right hand side of the course allowed Langdown to reach in and lead at the top mark by some distance. The course became a little one sided after the first lap with the fleet heading right upwind. With the race victory all but decided, the real battle ensued for the minor places. Mussell, Browett, Aston and Noble changed places in some tight engages before Aston got the jump on Mussell and Browett at the last windward mark to secure second.

Langdown’s extra pre-season preparation and increased pie consumption was really starting to pay dividends, he even seems to have gained a little height!.

Race 2 was sailed in much lighter F2-3 conditions. The weather experienced on arrival that morning was nowhere to be seen.

Mussell, Dives, Browett and Langdown led at the windward mark after the fleet headed along the shoreline after the start. Mussell led for a lap before complacency cost him dear as Browett and Langdown overhauled him in the dying breeze.

Browett lead the top 3 to the finish with Dives hanging on to the coat tails of Mussell to finish a clear fourth, ahead of Hudson who lead the rest of pack home in fifth.

The usual curry-night stop-over was enjoyed by many plus special thanks to Pevensey Bay SC for allowing tents to be pitched and beers to be drunk on the Saturday night.

Howling winds, crashing waves and driving rain welcomed in Sunday morning. After an hour postponement with sailors huddled in the clubhouse and preceded by a 40+kt squall, racing was canned for the day leaving overnight leader Langdown victorious.    

Many thanks to all at Eastbourne Sovereign SC for making then best of difficult conditions.