If you can't beat them....

I've written about local boat builder Greg and his very fast Memory sloop Flugel. For the past two years he's beaten me at the Bursledon regatta gaffers race, so with Greta sold and no replacement in sight I shipped aboard with Greg as crew for this years race.

The day started with a brisk breeze, but the forecast was for stronger winds to come. Above are the local competition; a cabin version of the Memory and a John Leather cutter Blue Gansey.

Mid way through the race the wind was a steady force six, gusting force seven, even in the sheltered wares of the Solent it was lively aboard a 19 foot open boat.

Although we didn't place well, we did finish, lots of our fellow competitors, including some much larger boats retired. And I think we claimed the prize for the first RAFYC boat to finish.

Above Greg at the helm.

Below crew Bob who has competed and finished at every Bursledon regatta since the early 1970's, looking relaxed as we sail back into the river.