Winter conditions greeted the RS400 fleet at Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club, with plummeting temperatures, icy spray, and layered-up sailors for the RS Frostie Series on Belfast Lough.
Patrick Hamilton and Sam Kelly were first on the water, launching before most had settled post-lunch.
The opening race began with drama. Liam Donnelly and Katie Nelson were called over the line early.
Strong gusts favoured Luke McIlwaine and Ryan Wilson, who led early, closely followed by Gareth Flannigan with Knox Wilson, and Ross Kearney with Andrew Vaughan.
Rob Hastings fielded a new crew, Sam McLernon, for a third consecutive Sunday. McLernon earned praise for his debut in the RS400 class.
RYA’s Lyn Mutch joined the day to film fleet action. Mid-race, under the Race Officer's orders, the windward mark was moved.
Pre-race interviews added a twist. Neil Calvin held an RS400 mast upright through his entire chat, prompting debate: strength or smart physics?
Shifting winds kept crews on their toes in the following races. Liam Donnelly shouted for room at the mark to Paul and Adam Robinson — who still had their kite up while rounding the leeward gate.
Youth sailors Joseph Robinson and Dan Sherriff made an unusual move by colliding with a safety boat.
Seaweed from Storm Claudia added another hurdle, clogging daggerboards and rudders throughout.
Gareth Flannigan and Knox Wilson finished top of the day's standings. Ross Kearney and Andrew Vaughan followed, with Luke McIlwaine and Ryan Wilson in third.
Results downloadable below.
