HISC Harbour Regatta Tours . . .

Five club Merlins made it up to Dell Quay regatta last Saturday, both by traditional and non traditional routes.

In a gusty race the HISC boats pulled away from the fleet, with places changing more due to map reading and rigging issues than any particular talent. Eventually, after a course with a high gybe count, "Time and Tide" eased ahead of "Wild Card", who despite a desperate last minute attempt for a further change in finishing order at the last spinnaker drop, managed to nose in ahead of "Paradigm Shift". "Chiefy" regrettably missing in action.

The HISC travellers received a very warm welcome from the Commodore of DQSC, HISC boats sweeping the fast handicap podium, and incidentally, first prize being a meal for 4 at the pub next door to the sailing club, making the trip worthwhile. After an above average tea, the tide now on the ebb, the traditional travellers returned to HISC in under the hour.

Sunday, on to CYC regatta, the HISC based boats electing not to travel due to the conditions. The two Chichester based boats representing HISC battled it out for podium honours. "Wild Card" taking an early lead, using the knowledge of youth and memories of early romance, powering away from "Time and Tide". However, not to be, enthusiasm wilted the main sheet allowing "Time and Tide" through for a repeat of Saturdays performance - Hayling 1 and 2.

There are a number of Harbour regattas coming up, Ichenor 15th August, Bosham 23rd and of course Mengeham on the 9th, it would be good to see a large HISC travelling fleet supporting these fun events.

John Rees