The 19th edition of the RS400 Winter Series at Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club (RNIYC) started in brisk conditions on Belfast Lough. The Race Officer described the wind as “spicy” and asked the fleet to stick together for safety coverage.
Eleven boats launched into choppy seas with dark streaks of gusts along the coast. Capsizing began early: Jake Millar and Rowan Berry rolled on their way to the start.
On the start line, crews found remaining upright a serious challenge. Tim Leonard and Grant Rintoul suffered roll‑overs before the gun.
Most of the fleet reached the windward mark, except Rob Hastings and Rory Higgins, who took an early dip. Downwind, the key decision was to hoist the spinnaker or gybe — any hopes of a wind drop evaporated.
From the top mark, around five boats were seen capsized. The newly paired Brian Holmes and Frank McFarlane worked through passing capsized rivals, only to capsize themselves at high speed.
Positions were swapped multiple times due to the taxing conditions. In the end, Millar and Berry claimed the win, moving up four places on the second lap — notably Millar’s first time helming an RS400. Gareth Flannigan/Knox Wilson took second, and Patrick Hamilton/Sam Kelly came third. Eight boats finished the race.
RNIYC RS400 race winners on November 2nd, Jake Millar and Rowan Berry in 741 'Kraken'
A crew member sustained an injury after their bow plunged and their head struck the mast. With stretched safety‑boat coverage and no signs of easing wind, Gerry decided to abandon further racing. Some crews were already heading back to the club at that point, which underscored the wisdom of the call.
Back at the club, stories were shared in the warm bar. The fleet ranges in age from twenties to seventies, with experienced sailors mentoring newer crews.
Race organisers expect numbers to rise as the series progresses, noting several crews were absent this weekend.
