Sailing: Keir crowned winner of Dewar’s series

Aug 20 2010 by Johnathon Menzies, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

A TOTAL of nine vessels entered Perth Sailing Club’s Dewar’s Series over the weekend, which saw competitors take part in six races over the course of three days.

Graham Keir was crowned the overall winner on points after toting-up the best overall score.

Unfortunately, lack of wind meant that Friday evening’s racing was cancelled and the first of the races began the following day.

There was a pile-up at the course’s first port mark, with boats struggling to round it against a strong incoming tide.

First over the line was Graham Keir, followed by Gary Tait. The pair were narrowly pipped Bob and Anne Watson into third.

The second installment was shortened to two marks due to the lack of wind.

Graham’s Solo moved ahead of Gary’s Laser, with Bill’s Firefly close behind. The positions remained the same throughout.

There was a good, clean start to Sunday’s action, with Patrick Dalgety – crewed by Bill Inches – leading the fleet from the start, followed by Andrew Porteous’ Solo and Graham in hot pursuit.

Bob Watson, in his Enterprise, was crewed for by Peter Thriepland, one of the club’s cadets who successfully completed his RYA course.

It was a close race, with no fouls or capsizes. First to cross the line was Graham followed by Sandy, with Patrick and Bill closely behind.

RESULTS (August 14) – Race 1: 1 Shusui (G Keir), 2 Georgie Girl (G Tait), 3 Aeolian (B Watson and A Watson).

Race 2: 1 Shusui (G Keir), 2 Georgie Girl (G Tait), 3 Solo (A.Porteous).

RESULTS (August 15) – Race 1: 1 Alibi (P Dalgety and B Inches), 2 Shusui (G Keir), 3 Solo (A Porteous).

Race 2: 1 Shusui (G Keir), 2 Solo (C Fullerton), 3 Feva (J Ferguson).

Graham Keir was crowned the overall winners of the Dewar’s Series on points.