National Championship Special Edition!

July 2009

Champs Preview Brixham Revisited

Runners & Riders Venue Guide and much more!

Upcoming Events in Ju ly

4th /5 th July – Mayflower SC (Belle Isle) 12 th July – West Kirby SC (Midlands & North Region) 25 th -31 st July – National Championships, Brixham YC

Editorial Blurb

We are really pleased that the first edition of Lark eNews was well received. Certainly from the emails and forum postings on the Lark website we are happy that this is the right move for the Lark Class. Emma Harris made a great point about the content of the first newsletter being a bit “samey” – ie cut and paste from the website which it was. The eNews needs to cater for those who check the website on a regular basis as well as those that look at it occasionally. Having the important content in one easy to read newsletter helps both types of Lark sailor stay up to date. The plan was always for the Lark eNews to develop into a more interesting read and hopefully from this issue you will already see some great new content.

As Emma says, “it's time to get our thinking caps on and send in anything, from little snippets of gossip, to full-on articles, photos, anything we think may be of interest to all the Lark sailors out there.”

Lark eNews team

Class News

Nationals Cut Off Date Looming!

The Lark Nationals discounted entry deadline is approaching fast! There is now less than a week to the 28 th June at which time the entry fee will increase from £150 to £175. Whilst this is still less than many other classes (some not even having a full week champs) it is still money I am sure you would rather spend elsewhere. So, please, don’t delay any further and enter online at www.larknationals.org .

Entries have been coming in though and we anticipate a 50+ (quietly we anticipate 60 or over) entry for the Brixham Nationals which will be another awesome Lark Nationals. It’s difficult to improve on our successful format each year but we are confident that Steve, John and Andy have left no stone unturned in their pursuit of the best nationals ever!

Midlands & North Region Update

Rounds 2 and 3 of the inaugural Lark Midlands & North Circuit took place in May at Barnt Green and South Staffs Sailing Clubs.

South Staff SC's, Tony Hotchkiss & Pippa Vick currently lead the series from Stuart & Charlotte Norris from Shropshire SC. Richard "Smashie" Bennett & Nic Booth with their two event wins are the boat to watch and will no doubt be vying for top spot at the end of the season.

The series is a great stepping stone for club sailors looking to make the step up from club racing to open meetings for the first time. Some of M&NR circuit events will also qualify for the prestigious Belle Isle Travellers Trophy Series which remains the Lark Class's flag ship traveller’s series. To qualify for the M&NR series helms must compete in a minimum of 4 events and one event must include a Belle Isle event. So far 36 teams have competed in the three events but there is still time to get involved.

If you want to know more about the circuit then please contact Ruth Johnson at [email protected] .

Larks Needed for the Nationals and Masters!

With two major Lark events on the horizon there has never been such demand for Larks to borrow. We now know of a significant number of sailors who are actively looking to borrow or charter a Lark for the Nationals or Masters Championships. Many of these sailors are former Lark sailors or very good sailors from other classes. Either way it is great for the Lark Class that they want to participate in these events and hopefully they will (re)discover the magic of the Lark Class and return as Lark owners in the near future.

If you would be interested in loaning or chartering your boat for the Nationals or Masters then please contact Nigel Scott ([email protected] ) or Tim Fells ( [email protected] ) for each event respectively. Event Previews

West Kirby Open Meeting Preview

This years West Kirby Open meeting will be held on 12 July 2009. This year’s event forms part of the North and Midlands circuit so we are looking forward to welcoming a good turnout of Larks. It is also worth noting that this event forms part of the Dee Regatta which is held on the Saturday and Sunday.

The schedule of events is as follows:

Saturday 11 July Dee Regatta

This does not form part of the open but those who want 2 days racing they can join this sailing from West Kirby. There is also a great social on Saturday evening at Dee Sailing Club just 10 mins from West Kirby with live band.

2 races organised by Dee Sailing Club start time 13.10. The event cost is £6.00 and there are separate prizes for this event.

Sunday 12 July West Kirby Open

All racing takes place on the Dee Estuary which provides some great sailing on open water when the tide is up. Many local Larks will be racing both days and it would be good to see visitors on both days also.

2 races organised by West Kirby Sailing Club. First start time 13.15. Prize giving at 6.00pm refreshments are available after racing. The Entry fee is £6.00.

If you need accommodation then please contact Tim Lawrence on 07887 540276 or email [email protected] .

Mayflower Open Meeting Preview

This year, the Belle Isle event at Mayflower sailing club, Plymouth, has a new position in the Lark calendar. It has moved from the Final Fling to its new pre-nationals date on 4th/5th July. The Plymouth sound is a fantastic place to sail and can cope with various wind directions and strengths, as sailing can take place inside or outside the break water, and it’s well worth the travel.

This newly positioned event is being shared with the Supernovas, who are having their nationals, and Lightning dinghy classes.

There will be 3 races on each day and with our own start and plenty of room on the water for everyone; it should be great sailing, with waves galore. Registration is from 11am with the first start at 1pm - allow plenty of time to sail out, especially if racing is outside the breakwater.

This year’s evening entertainment has been organised by the club, and is also included in the entry price. There is a curry (or BBQ if the sun is shining!) organised for evening and live entertainment continuing into the night. All in and around the clubhouse area, so you won’t have to go far.

A postal pre-entry discount applies to this event - £45 per boat before 1st July and £50 per boat after. This price includes the racing on both days, entertainment and food on Saturday evening. Breakfasts will also be provided on Sunday morning at very competitive prices.

For accommodation, there are plenty of B&B's around the Citadel Road area, but it is wise to book in advance if you can.

Pagham Open Meeting Preview

After the disappointment of the cancellation of the Pagham open meeting back in May the Lark Class can happily announce that this event has been rearranged. It has been scheduled for the 18 th /19 th July for some fantastic sea sailing practice a week before the start of the Nationals.

Pagham is sea sailing at its very best, launching from the beach, at a great club with a friendly atmosphere, good food, fantastic social and free camping!

There will be three races on Saturday and two races on Sunday. The first race on Saturday will be at 1300 and on Sunday the first race will be at 1100.

If you want to arrive Friday night, please call the Sailing Commodore, Phil Isom on 07779 846111 to arrange.

Lark Inland Championships Teaser Preview

The Lark Class will be visiting Carsington Sailing Club for the first time for the 2009 Lark Inland Championships on 5 th /6 th September. Situated in the Peak District sailing takes place on the picturesque 740-acre reservoir.

Opened in 1992, Carsington Water blends with its natural setting to create sailing facilities of an excellent quality. The Club has a modern stone built clubhouse, large warm changing rooms with hot showers, a fully stocked bar and extensive catering facilities. There is ample car and boat parking. In addition to three slipways boats can also be rigged on the foreshore.

Racing will be part of both the Belle Isle Travellers Circuit and also the Midlands & North Region Circuit. If you can’t make the National Championships then this is the big event to be at.

More details of what will be a huge Lark event will appear in the next Lark eNews and on the Lark Website.

Open Meeting Report Writing

Over the years it has become standard practice for the winner of events to write the report for the event. It’s a small price to pay for winning an event. Unfortunately this sometimes makes for uninteresting reports as the winners often don’t look back to where the good stuff happens.

It’s time for a change! If an event winner has already written a report in the calendar year then the privilege will pass down to the next boat that hasn’t already written a report. This way the reporting will be spread out amongst the fleet and will hopefully make them all the more interesting!

Sometimes competitors leave an event before they have seen the final results but the marketing team will make sure you know that a report needs to be provided. Reports are great way to keep the sailing community aware of what is happening in the Lark class and they don’t take long to write.

If you have won the Silver or Bronze fleet at an event then perhaps you would consider typing a few words to help promote that fleet also. It all helps make the Lark Class an even better place to be!

All event reports should be emailed to Edd McArdle ( [email protected] ) as soon as possible after the event and no later than the Tuesday evening following the event.

2009 Lark Nationals Preview

The Larks last visited Brixham YC in 1991 for a huge 120 boat event. The Larks were the class to be seen in with many big name yachters. We return 18 years later as a smaller, more refined class - but make no mistake this event will be BIG. A sailing and social extravaganza!

Brixham have a lovely club house cut into the side of the harbour with ample facilities including wet & dry bars, restaurant, lounge and balconies with breathtaking views across Torbay’s bay. We have been really impressed with the clubs welcoming reception to the Larks and their professional attitude to the event.

Experienced Race Officer, Sean Semmans will be our PRO for the week and will be ably assisted by Brixham’s excellent race team.

Great Sailing!

Lark Championship veterans will be familiar with the popular race format for the week:

9 Championship points races running from Sun-Fri plus a practice race on Saturday and the Crew’s Race Gate & Line Starts - Starting ability will be tested with both gate & line starts Courses will switch between Olympic & Trapezoid – check the SI’s for the expected combinations for each day. Race management will be overseen by Sean Semmans and his team who will be our Race officer for the week. Watch out for Fotoboat during the week who will be building a collection of your proudest holiday moments. Remember, big smiles and hike hard!! Photos can be viewed from http://www.fotoboat.com/ Best Buddies 2009 – The Buddy System Returns, teams will be announced before the champs so make sure you enter early! Tech Corner – During the week there will be a number of technical discussions between 9:15 – 9:45 delivered by the cream of the Lark Fleet on various aspects of weather, boat tuning and boat handling. These sessions will include a questions & answers forum, so don’t be shy and ask those questions you have always wanted to.

Remember the cut off date for reduced entry of £150 is 28th June, after which entry will go up to £175. If this is the helms first Lark Championship or both helm and crew are under 21 or both in full time education (to June 2009) then entry will be discounted to £100 for entries received before 28th June and £125 after.

You can enter online at www.larknationals.org today. Payment is accepted by PayPal, debit and credit cards.

Socials Extravaganza!

Saturday Night – Commodore’s Reception. What better way of starting your week by catching up with old friends meeting new ones at the opening night get together. With an introduction to our hosting Yacht Club the Commodore will be welcoming the Larks to Brixham and then its over to us to show how well we can get the weeklong party started!!! – Bring it on.

Sunday– Games Night The Lark Nationals would not be the Lark Nationals without the Games Night. So once again you are all invited down to the sailing club to partake in an evening of fun and games with the rest of the fleet.

Monday – Crews Union/Board of Directors The night of the legendry Crew’s Union – The helms will be spending the evening in the yacht club testing their pallets by attempting some wine tasting, whilst the crews will be heading to a local establishment to let their hair down (and probably destroy their pallets) for a couple of hours before everyone gets back together for a party at back at the club.

Tuesday – BBQ and Pimms Night There could be no better way to spend a beautiful summer’s evening than by quaffing a nicely chilled Pimms and tucking into some freshly cooked food off the Barbie with the beautiful backdrop of Torbay from the yacht club’s outdoor bar.

Wednesday – AGM The AGM will be held in the yacht club. By participating in the AGM you are contributing to the continued success in YOUR class!

Thursday – Fancy Dress Party As you all know Thursday night is fancy dress party night. As ever the party’s going to be WILD. So funnel your animal instincts into preparing your outfit, ‘cos this years theme is NOAH’S ARK! With a live band providing the tunes we can all dance 2 by 2 into the night.

Friday – Prize Giving Disco With a tear in the eye it will be time to say goodbye to the Nationals for another year. But before you go it’s time to hand out the prizes, culminating in awarding the crown of the National Champions 2009. And why not help them celebrate in the way that the Larks know best by having a massive party!!

Nationals Registration & Scrutineering

Registration will take place on Saturday 25th July 2009 from 11:00 to 13:00. We remind competitors that all Helms and Crews must be members of the LCOA to compete in Lark Championships. Membership forms are available on the Lark website (on the contact the LCOA page) and at registration.

Scrutineering will also take place on Saturday 25th July 2009 from 10:00. Please remember to book your time slot for Scrutineering as soon as you arrive. Booking in will take place in the registration office.

We remind all competitors that:

All boats require a valid measurement certificate All boats will be scrutinised which consists of (i) Boat weighing (ii) Boat buoyancy check All sails shall have been measured

If you know your boat needs measuring or are unsure if it has a valid measurement certificate, please contact Chris Biglin at [email protected] in advance so that he can organise for your boat to be measured in advance by one of the class measurers.

Measurement of new sails will also be done on the Saturday morning. Once again please book in at the registration office to have your sales measured before 13:00.

On arrival registration will be run from the club office above the Lounge on Saturday between 11 and 1. Scrutineering will run strictly from 10-2. Don’t forget our measurers are on holiday too, so make sure you get measured between these times – tallies will only be awarded to each boat upon successful measuring. To be absolutely clear - no competitor will be allowed to compete in any race without a tally.

To avoid disappointment, arrive early and make getting measured your first priority. People intending to arrive on Friday may be able to measure early at the measurer’s discretion. Contact Chris at [email protected] to make arrangements.

Anyone interested in getting involved with the measuring team should be aware that there will be a measurers meeting on the Monday at 6:30 before Games night starts at 7:30. The meeting is intended to attract more volunteers and to explain recent rule changes to the team.

Letter from the BYC Commodore

Dear Steve,

2009 Lark National Championships

I am delighted to hear that the Larks are returning to Brixham for their National Championships next year.

It is many years since you were last here, but we still have fond memories of a lively and very enjoyable week – let’s hope we can make next year’s event even better.

Our facilities have been gradually improved over the years, and we look forward to working with you and your team to create a memorable championship both on and off the water.

Please pass on a warm welcome from Brixham Yacht Club to all of your members.

With kind regards

Alan J Haynes Commodore, BYC

Nationals Buddy Competition 2009

After the success of the 2008 Buddy Competition we will be announcing the teams before the event.

A random draw for the teams will be made prior to the Championships with the aim of having a Gold, Silver and Bronze fleet boat in each team. Obviously as the numbers in each of the fleets are uneven we have had to mix up some of the teams as fairly as possible.

How it will work

1) On arrival at the Nationals please find your buddy partners as soon as possible and between you decide on a Team Name.

2) The Buddy System will be scored using a High Points system and posted each evening with the Nationals Results. Discards will be taken into account.

3) There are also BONUS points to be had!

A Duckhams win - 10 Points The best Team Name as decided by our panel of judges - 10 Points Practice Race win - 10 points

4) The team with the highest points score at the end of the week will be the winner.

Finally, it is up to the buddies to help each other improve their teams score with tips, tricks and tuning advice throughout the week.

Who will be "Best Buddies 2009"!

Enter the Lark Nationals Online Today Visit www.larknationals.org now! Brixham Revisited By Nigel Hufton

The last time The Larks went to Brixham - in 1991 – it was an unforgettable event both on and off the water! On the water, the sight of 120 Larks on one start line was something to behold – only the second year this had been achieved.

The week was eventually won by Mark & Liz Rushall, this being the second of the three consecutive wins which elevated them to the position of Lark ‘Gods’. The Rushall’s certainly didn’t have it their own way, not actually getting into the overall lead until the last race, beating Rob & Ruth Lennox into second place by just 0.75 points. That Rob & Ruth were Mark’s brother-in-law and sister didn’t affect their will to beat them.

Indeed, the fleet was highly competitive, with the top six including other top Lark helms (Russ Gibbs and Ian Videlo), plus those stars better known from other classes (Dave Derby and Russell Peters). A look down the list finds strength in depth, with Tim Fells in 20th, Pete Harper in 37th. There was also emerging talent, with two notable youths in Nick Craig (59th) and our current Chairman Simon Cox (98th). One might also note there were a number of married couples in the fleet, but there wasn’t a special trophy then!

Sadly, Torbay didn’t deliver perfect sailing that week, with one day ‘blown off’ completely and another cancelled for lack of wind. Of the five races sailed three had large shifts up the first beat - late starters in the last race being able to fly kites (none of the races were recalled).

However, it was a great week for the Duckham’s prize. Jon Redding - a respectable lawyer - even got locked in a cell for a night after riding on the wrong side of the road without lights, then stopping for a Jimmy Riddle in full view of the police station. When approached he blustered, “Either arrest me or get out of my way!”

Another notable Duckham’s win was for Rob ‘The Admiral’ Bellfield (then a naval navigator) for leading half the fleet round the wrong mark (although he had won the previous race comfortably and the real windward mark was out of site almost on Paignton beach!).

Duckhams nominations also went to the race committee. Their ‘underperforming’ included leaving a race to run even after the guard launch ran out of petrol during the pathfinder’s run (leading to some serious detours for late starters!) and using black marks – invisible against dark cliffs!

Those who don’t remember much may blame the serious alcohol abuse which went on. These were the days when the whole fleet would sing rugby songs – generally orchestrated by Tim Fells – followed by a male-bonding demonstration as half the men stripped off to the words of ‘Singing in the rain’. It is difficult to convey just how things were then – oh, how restrained we seem now!

The high spirits weren’t always understood by the club stewards – sailors were told to remove hats indoors and on the last night some over-eager stewards spilled some competitors’ beer - leading to something of a stand-off and a chorus of 'You’ll Never walk Alone'. The prize-giving was banished to the boat park, lit by a fire-eating display by Chris Wayman and Rocky. As Andy Hicks reported at the time, “There was some debate as to whether we were going to be allowed back into the club, but the officials took one look at the scorched faces of Chris and Rocky and decided not to mess with people who drink lighter fuel for a pastime!”

Clearly it was a notable week. However, now that The Larks have grown up – and assuming the race management can match its early promise – I am sure we can look forward to a cracking week in what is a great sailing venue.

2009 Lark Class Clothing Available Now!

The new range of clothing is available to purchase now direct online from the Crest of a Wave website.

T-Shirts Sweatshirts Hoodies Polo Shirts

All clothing is available with an optional club logo. Discounts available for club bulk purchases.

Visit www.crestofawave.com or phone 01373 480734 now!

Gold Fleet Runners & Riders

Your racing correspondent, 'Cornelius Lycett’ Hufton, takes a horse-racing view of the young studs (and ageing nags) which are looking to be first past the winning post this year. Remember it’s a personal view and just for fun!

2464 “Rocket Ronnie” – Alan Krailing & Edd McArdle

Odds: 5:2 Handicap (Weight): 140kg Nationals Form (2004-8): 6, 9, 1, 4, 2 Highest placing: 1 (2006)

Bred by Rondar, Rocket Ronnie was the first of the line to win the Nationals. A great all- rounder, this stallion is unbeaten in the Belle Isle this year and is hungry to repeat the win of 2006. The 'aft' jockey has been seen training in other classes, although the front jockey is a new dad, which may slow him down.

2311 “Bomber” – Emma Harris & Becky Priest

Odds: 3:1 Handicap (Weight): 135kg Nationals Form (2004-8): 3, 3, DNS, 5, 8 Highest placing: 1 (2002)

A seasoned campaigner, this mare still has the speed and tactical nous to see off many of the young geldings. A previous winner (2002), but she won enough events last year - over jumps and on the flat - to take the Belle Isle Trophy. A relative underperformance at last Nationals outing might be just the spur to see her repeat the victory of 2002.

2496 “Nelly the Elephant” – Steve & Nicola Cumley

Odds: 4:1 Handicap (Weight): 140kg (est) Nationals Form (2004-8): DNS, 2, 5, 1, 3 Highest placing: 1 (2007)

Hit the race track running in her first year and never out of the top five since. Good all- rounder. The main question marks are over how well the new front jockey will settle in and what the effect on the team of recent marriage will be.

2494 “Fishy Fingers Too” – Chris Fish & Beth Condie

Odds: 4:1 Handicap (Weight): 140kg Nationals Form (2004-8): 10, 13, 4, 7, 1 Highest placing: 1 (2008)

Another seasoned campaigner and the current champions. Particularly strong over the jumps from a large field. Not tactically conservative – but risk-taking paid off at Bridlington and Brixham can reward risk-taking.

2491 “Forty Two” – Steve & Chris Videlo

Odds: 5:1 Handicap (Weight): 131kg Nationals Form (2004-8): DNS, 11, 15, 7, 5 Highest placing: 5

These youngsters from the Waldringfield stables have been improving year on year. They are particularly strong on the flat courses carrying a low handicap. Brixham’s light wind reputation could see them further increase their prize winnings.

“P&B” – Steve Hall & Simon Haighton

Odds: 6:1 Handicap (Weight): 141kg Nationals Form (2004-8): DNS, DNS, 27, 12, 4 Highest placing: 4 (2008)

Expected to be racing a new thoroughbred from the outstanding Ovington stables. Their ride hasn’t been born at the time of writing (!), so may take time to mature, but will be champing at the bit to improve on the 4th achieved by its ever-improving jockeys.

2452 “Kiss my Face 2” – Harry Pynn & Dave Chisholm Odds: 10:1 Handicap (Weight): 134kg Nationals Form (2004-8): DNS, 11, 6, 10, 7 Highest placing: 3 (2002)

Pynn & Chisholm will be riding together for the second consecutive year but have not sailed together in 2009. They are both competitive racers but lack of time racing together could wreck their overall chances.

2471 “The Joker” – Matt White & Harriet Steer Odds: 10:1 Handicap (Weight): 130kg (est) Nationals Form (2004-8): 24, 15, 13, 6, 6 Highest placing: 6 (many!)

Less time on the training ground may see them struggle to maintain their top 10 streak. They have one of the most experienced jockey’s at the back and Brixham conditions may suit their handicap.

2487 “Va Va Voom” – Richard “Smashie” Bennett & Nicola Booth Odds: 10:1 Handicap (Weight): 130kg Nationals Form (2004-8): 14, 12, 8, 14, 9 Highest placing: 2 (2001)

Our tip for an each way bet. On form on the flat winning two recent events but also performing well over the jumps. Conditions at Brixham will suit them and they could be Grand National winners at the end of the week.

2470 “Tiger” – Nigel Hufton & Andy Douglas Odds: 10:1 Handicap (Weight): 135kg Nationals Form (2004-8): 2, RTD, 3, 11, 12 Highest placing: 2 (2004)

This newly formed team will be returning to a venue that Jockey Hufton knows well. In 2004 defeat was snatched from the jaws of victory after breaking his reins in the pre-start. They will be up their but probably not in the running for overall victory.

Silver Fleet Runners & Riders By Nigel Scott

This year competition in the Silver fleet has been hotter than ever before, with some helms changing or even swapping crews (we are all one big family after all), and some others investing in new boats, sails and even training for the ensuing battle. So who will be awarded the silver crown at the National in a month’s time? The candidates are:

2347 “Ermintrude” – Holly Hewat & Ruth Johnson Currently leading the Silver fleet Belle Isle, this new pairing have the boat, the pedigree and they’re strong contenders

2472 “Zebidee” – Nigel Scott & Paul Gardner Last years winners of the Silver fleet at the Nationals, Nigel has recruited ex helm Paul to defend his title

2330 “Prudence” – Steve Chatten & Kirsty Phipps Always guaranteed to slot in some top results, Steve has recovered from his injury and recruited Kirsty for this years campaign

2132 – Jane Alexander & Rachel Rhodes Another new pairing that have been showing great form so far at Rock and Royal Harwich, expect to see them at or near the front

2465 – Will Croxford & Chris Warburton Had a storming Rock ending up 5th overall, which makes him a strong candidate for the Silver crown

2268 “Grizzly Bear” – Dan Watson & Karen Jewkes Led the Silver fleet for the whole of the Nationals last year and only lost it on the last day, now teamed up with the Jewkes of Hazard

2515 “The Dark Knight” – Chris & Ann Biglin Another past winner of the Silver fleet Belle Isle, this year they have a new boat with new gizmos, guaranteed to be up there

2462 “Mr Bigglesworth” – Nick & Joanna Marlow Have been consistently strong performers previously in the Gold fleet and are definitely a good tip for 2009

2422 – James Ward & Katie Haighton Have also gone out and invested in a new ship, although the last one was only held together with duck tape! Currently second in the Belle Isle Silver fleet and a good bet for Nationals Silver fleet victory

2500 “Pussy Galore” – Fiona Gray & Aaron Woolf With a new boat and new crew Fiona has progressed quickly from the Bronze fleet and is a regular challenger in the Silver fleet

These 10 would definitely be the bookies favourites, but competition is hotter that ever in the Silver fleet with the likes of Geoff Sinton, Dan Smith, Tim Vick, Chris Holliman, and many other newcomers or Nationals first timers who could completely throw the form book over the transom.

One thing is for certain with competition this hot, the Gold fleet had better watch out, as the Silver fleet will be snapping at their heels and might just be in the overall chocolates!

Bronze Fleet Runners & Riders By Adam Owens

2479 “Northern Monkey” - Neil Barrett & Sophie Jones Ever-present on the circuit, Neil and Sophie have travelled far and wide to attend Lark events this year, and have displayed some serious pace so far, as their position in the BI suggests. An odds-on favourite to win the bronze fleet, should they ever get round to entering!

2509 “Fluffy thwarts” - Spanni Archer & Hannah Mayhew Competing in their second nationals as a team, Spanni and Hannah are a quick pair out on the water, and pretty creative with the marker pens when it comes to fancy dress. After a strong showing last year, they’ll be in with a good chance of winning the bronze fleet.

2492 “Florence” - Eluned Jones & Millie Parsons New helm, Eluned has impressed so far in the Belle Isle this year, with a variety of talented sailors in the front of the boat. A boat full of nationals experience, this is another all-girls team who will be looking to impress in Brixham.

2504 “Mlevi” - John Crooks & Helen Winward The Lark class wouldn’t be the Lark class without them! Duckhams master-of- ceremonies John Crooks and his crew Helen are always in with a shout of winning the bronze fleet, could this year be their year?

2365 - Seb Balch & Chris Proffit With two quick and competitive, former Cadet sailors on board, this boat certainly has the potential to win the Bronze fleet this year. Whilst not regulars on the Belle Isle circuit they could be the team to spring a surprise in Devon.

2495 “Well Dodgy” - David Lynch & Nick Hydon Two youth sailors from Shustoke who have been going well on home turf, but have yet to venture onto the circuit. The have a known rocket ship and the word from Shustoke is that they have a lot of potential. One to look out for in light winds.

2490 “Bob” - Rob & Ruth Marlow Rob and Ruth have been a challenging for the bronze fleet trophy for the last few years. They are both good sailors and a consistent week of results could see this family team finally walk away with the bronze fleet title.

2517 Stuart Norris & Charlotte Norris This father and daughter team has been going strongly in the inaugural Midlands & North region circuit, posting some impressive results along the way. With a spanking new Rondar beneath them, they could well be fighting for Bronze fleet honours come Friday.

Once again the Bronze fleet is shaping up to be a very open competition, and with other strong contenders including Geoff Holden, Laura Mitchell, Garry Packer and Andy Cox, competitive racing amongst the fleet is guaranteed.

Duckhams Runners & Riders

The Old Hands

Tobytastic Lewis – A seasoned performer at the Endeavour trophy – Toby likes to let his hair down at the Larks. Abersoch saw him carried into the Pompey mini bus and heckling the prize giving. He has even been known to leave sailing kit at QMSC for 2 months presuming it was in his car. Special skill: Fancy dress

Steve Hall – Has been known to arrive for sailing with absolutely no kit. But he is best known for beautifully remodelling his last Lark on the way into Morrison’s by ignoring the height barrier. This year he’ll be sailing the eagerly awaited Ovington prototype which the fleet are eagerly awaiting. Can he handle the pressure or will a silly mistake creep in? Special skill: Supermarkets

Simon Haighton – Although implicated in the supermarket antics with Steve Hall, Simon has plenty to offer on his own. He has been known to wake up to the 5 min gun still fully clothed in his car. Possibly the most promising Duckhams talent to emerge in the last couple of years. Special skill: His red-headed mane

Jane Alexander & Rachel Rhodes – Double trouble! Jane has teamed up with another Duckhams leg-end, Rachel, for the champs. Both seasoned performers on the Duckhams trail so one would expect a few mishaps despite their excellent form on the water. Special skill: Drinking hats

Mark Ampleford – Mark might be a reformed man. Recently married to the lovely Jill, but don’t let that fool you! Mark is a magnet to the Duckhams. Special skill: Marriage

Others to watch: Smashie Bennett, Simon Cox, Steve Chatten, James Ward, Chris Holliman, Nigel Scott, Alison Dart and the list goes on…

The young pretenders

Joanna Marlow – Whilst still young, few can argue with the massive experience Joanna has built up. Penzance saw a heroic effort - managing two complete races whilst vomiting over the side. Special skill: Crews’ union

David Marlow – The boy Marlow is nearing the completion of his Cambridge studies so narrowly scrapes into this category. Nick has taught this young gun well. David can tie a bow tie in 3.4 seconds and down a pint even quicker but he is regularly a “horse’s ++se”. Special skill: Seduction

Holly Hewat – Not yet a winner of the Duckhams but implicated by association to Mr Haighton. Could this be the year that she becomes infamous? Special skill: Mr Haighton

Others to watch: The Mayhew siblings, Spanni Archer, Will Croxford

Wild cards new to the fleet

Alex Jackson – Alex is the Merlin Rocket class chairman but don’t be fooled by such a position of responsibility. He will be partying hard in unchartered waters. It’s going to be messy. Special skill: Sambucca (if you see him then buy him one)

Torbay Venue Guide By Mark Rushall

With warm water, sandy beaches, and fish and chips and ice cream shops on every corner, a competitive dinghy sailor’s calendar is not complete without at least one major championship sailed from the “English Riviera”.

Ashore

Access from the north via the M5 and A380, or the east via A30 and A380 is straightforward, but allow extra time for the holiday traffic in the summer and bank holidays: Torbay is also host to the world slow driving championships of the UK.

We haven’t yet found a real dinghy chandler local to Torbay: for specialist help we’d suggest a phone call to Yacht Parts (01752 222 265) or for spars or rigging Allspars (01752 266766). Both are situated in Queen Anne’s Battery Marina, Plymouth.

Frank Rowsell of Rowsell sails in Exmouth (01395 263911) is a specialist dinghy sail maker offering a full repair service. Alternatively Westaway Sails in Ivybridge (01752 892560) have drop off and collection points in Torbay.

Torbay is traditionally a light/medium wind regatta: the bay is sheltered from prevailing south westerlies, and the water seems too warm for a real pumping sea breeze, so bring a good book, and be prepared for some time on the beach waiting for the conditions to settle.

Preparation

Imray chart 2400.3 gives more detail of the racing areas than the more general Admiralty 3315. Tide times and some weather links are available through the sailing club’s websites, though as Torbay is very much a holiday destination, most local weather forecasting seems more focussed on sun and rain than the wind! Better to learn to interpret the met office barometric synopsis charts: there is plenty of help on www.metoffice.gov.uk.

Take a close look at the ordinance survey maps for the area: there are a couple of valleys feeding from the south west part of the bay and when the wind is blowing from this direction the shifts tend to blow first down one, then the next, giving the bay a more lake like abrupt style of shift rather than a long swinging one.

Torbay is definitely a venue dominated by the wind shifts: make sure you have a good tactical compass, and that you have practiced using it before the championship.

Sort the priorities

The tide The tide, which runs in a northerly direction (approximately parallel to the coast) when flooding, and southerly when ebbing, is rarely a strategically important effect as the strength is relatively low, and the gradient over the racing area is small. But check for local variations if the racing is close to the north or south end of the bay, and be aware of the tide’s effect on start mark and windward mark lay lines, particularly in westerly or easterly breezes.

The wind The sea breeze in Torbay typically fills in from a south easterly direction, and steadily builds and tracks to the right through the afternoon, dropping in the evening by which time it has shifted toward south westerly. Expect this effect if clear skies and light winds are followed by cumulus cloud building over the land: the classic sign of the land heating. The sea breeze’s regular oscillations should give the opportunity to work toward the right hand side of the course and take advantage of this progressive change. If the PRO is slow to swing the marks, look out for the course becoming skewed as the race progresses - on both beat and run - there is no extra advantage from over standing on the right!

Except in sub powered conditions, or when the course is well inshore, tactics in other conditions are dominated by the oscillating shifts. Use the table below to help determine the day’s priorities.

Torbay Race Guide

Wind Wind strength Oscillations Wind bend Trending Shift Tide direction If sailing from Will definitely be the most The wind will be further Paignton or Brixham, predominant factor: if sailing left near to Torquay, check for more wind close to Torquay they will be favouring the port tack on the left hand side big and unpredictable. approach to the Northerly of the course. Otherwise, if there is any windward mark, but the evidence of convergence on big shifts will dominate. the left hand side, use the shifts to protect the left. If sailing near Regular pattern, long swinging If sailing near Torbay, If it is hot and sunny, with In light winds and spring Torquay, check for shifts: use the compass and the wind bend should cumulus clouds forming tides, if the beat is set to North more wind on the tack when headed below the favour the left hand side inshore look for the compensate for the Easterly to left hand side of the mean heading for that tack. of the beat thermal effect to pull the tide, look out for a one Easterly course. wind progressively to the sided run. right: protect the right hand side. If sailing near Regular pattern, long swinging If this is a sea breeze, In light winds and spring Easterly to Brixham, expect less shifts: use the compass and protect the right, and look tides, if the beat is set to South wind on the right tack when headed below the out for the course compensate for the Easterly hand side of the mean heading for that tack. becoming progressively tide, look out for a one course skewed. sided run. If sailing from Likely to be the most If the windward mark is Paignton, watch for predominant factor: the closer close to the shore, less wind on the right the course is to Brixham, the check for a wind bend hand side of the bigger and less predictable will favouring the port tack Southerly beat. In light winds be the shifts. approach. when sailing from Brixham, watch for gusts coming down from the hills. As above, but the wind near If the windward mark is South Brixham will tend to alternate close to the shore, between valleys inland: expect check for a wind bend Westerly large shifts. favouring the port tack approach. If sailing from Likely to be the predominant If the windward mark is In light winds and spring Torquay in light factor. In the summer, watch close to the shore, tides, if the beat is set to winds, expect more for signs of cumulus building check for a wind bend compensate for the Westerly wind on the left hand over the land: a light westerly favouring the port tack tide, look out for a one side of the course. gradient wind in the morning approach. sided run. will help the sea breeze to develop later. Sailing from Torquay Likely to be the predominant If the windward mark is in light winds, it’s factor. In the summer, watch close to the shore, North likely to be gusty as for signs of cumulus building check for a wind bend the wind comes over over the land: a light westerly favouring the port tack Westerly the high ground: gradient wind in the morning approach. heads out of the will help the sea breeze to boat! develop later.

On return to shore

Watch out for the “killer seagulls” while enjoying your traditional fish and chips on the sea front. But first don’t forget to update your sailing log with what you learnt from the day.

RYA TACTICS by Mark Rushall

An outstanding new guide to racing strategy and tactics: RYA Tactics is written by Mark Rushall, one of the sport's top tacticians and coaches (with a little help from Ryan Wriggleback).

With easy to follow diagrams and colour photographs Mark and Ryan take you logically and holistically through each aspect of the race. The book sheds a new light on the subject and is broken into three easy to follow sections: Setting the Scene, Before the Start and The Race.

"If you take your racing seriously you cannot be without this book." Georgie Collett, Editor, Dinghy Sailing Magazine

RYA Tactics, 2007, published by RYA, 184 pages in full colour. ISBN 978-1-905104-21-5

Available from Mark’s website now - http://www.rushall.net/Shop.htm Kappa Mast Update By Chris Biglin

Since writing in Lark News in November, things have moved more quickly than anyone expected.

To recap, the C section design is over 40 years old and, along with the other ‘letter’ sections remaining from the Proctor days, Selden wish to withdraw them in favour of their modern alloy range. Current users are the Lark and Firefly that both include the C in their class rules, and the Solo for which it is only the choice of some individual owners.

Following previous debates and AGM votes which ran over a couple of years recently, it is clear that the membership supports the one design nature of the Lark mast and so it was my task to retain this. Selden/Proctor has been our mast supplier since day one, are ‘probably’ the leading manufacturer in the field and have been cooperative in all our dealings with them so it makes no sense to change.

Their recommendation was the Kappa, a section used by Scorpions, 420s and Solos among others, and previously by N12s prior to the introduction of carbon. On paper it is very close to the C in fore and aft stiffness and unsupported it is slightly stiffer sideways. On a boat, the spreaders are actually what decides the sideways stiffness so this wasn’t considered significant. The Kappa is also able to use the latest range of fittings, and the spreader bracket in particular has featured in a large number of our mast failures so the improved version could potentially make a big difference to mast durability by itself.

There are currently three Lark Kappa masts in existence. One has been on my boat, 2515, from day one and was seen by anyone that visited the Dinghy Show. It has been used in club racing and four open meetings to date. One has been used on Simon Cox, Harry Pynn and Alison Dart’s Parker Mk2 Larks on different occasions. Ally used it at Rock and has subsequently purchased her own to replace her bent C section mast.

It is quite hard to write a report on people’s findings as there isn’t much to say. Harry has kindly had a go:

“I sailed with the Kappa mast for the 2-day Easter Egg open meeting at Waldringfield.

I set the boat up with exactly the same deflection as my C section. The mast has the new fully adjustable thumbscrew spreader adjusters which I understand are only available on the newer Greek sections. This certainly allows more accurate adjustment and can only be a good thing.

Conditions were light. Combined with the strong spring tides this meant that racing was more about going the right way and not so much about pure boat speed. While this wasn't an ideal situation for testing, it certainly seemed to me that there was no noticeable difference in performance in these conditions.

Following discussions with Michael McNamara who makes my sails we agreed that my new mainsail would be cut the same as my previous one. It must be noted that my mainsails are cut flatter than most as I'm not as heavy as some. Stephen Videlo has the same cut as me, but other McNamara users have fuller mains.

One minor practical issue is that the mast is slightly wider than the C section. This meant that I had to remove the packing from the sides of the mast gate.

I would like to have tested the mast in stronger winds but that was not possible. I must admit that I'm not the most scientific of sailors, but given the similarity in the feel and performance of the boat I am certainly happy for the LCOA committee to recommend the Kappa for approval by the membership”.

Both Simon and Ally have confirmed the similarity in use, with Ally adding her reassurance that she considers it suitable for very lightweight crews. Simon has used it gusting 30+ knot winds and his additional contribution was sticking it into the Waldringfield mud from which it emerged unscathed. Not very scientific but a good sign none-the-less!

I have used it the most although it has been a more difficult comparison as I have been tuning a new boat at the same time. First impressions are simply that it behaves fundamentally the same, although I did notice that it appears to bend more evenly over its length, most noticeable without a mainsail being set. This was confirmed in conversation with Ian Simkins of North Sails who described the Kappa as more predictable and not ‘flopping about all over the place’. Ian confirmed that the sail design would not need to be modified to suit the Kappa (as have P&B and Speed Sails) and also added that he thought it was very good move.

From a performance viewpoint then, there has not been even the slightest suggestion from anywhere that the Kappa would not be a suitable replacement. You may or may not know that the Tufts University boats supplied by Rondar to the USA all went with Kappa masts.

The only issue relating to using the Kappa in a Lark was touched on by Harry; the width of the mast is marginally greater that that of the C although this is not of itself the problem. The sample masts were supplied with blue collars at deck level as we are used to seeing on the C but the collar does not fit the Kappa shape as closely as it does the C. The consequence of this is that the 1mm extra width of the kappa becomes 2 – 3mm once the collar is fitted and this is an issue for retrofitting as Harry discovered.

Selden say that a collar is not necessary, and I am certainly using my Kappa in a Rondar hull with the collar removed. But we are looking at the alternative sleeves as an option. Ovington built boats will have a deck moulding which can take the mast with collar, plus a space for packing. Replacement masts should be supplied without collar so that you can decide whether you want to use it or not.

That is the situation with the mast itself but commercial considerations have also played a significant role in the decisions that have been made.

If we change mast section, any stock of the old model being held by the mast stockists will become potentially undesirable and therefore harder for them to sell. The natural response is therefore to avoid ordering stock until it is clear what the new version will be. This also extends to Selden themselves who won’t build anything for stock while the uncertainty remains.

We made a point of investigating stock at all the Lark mast stockists we are aware of and discovered that two of the biggest were completely out of stock and wanting to place stock orders and that there were only two Lark C sections available in the country (although two more have since come to light). These masts will have to last us for the duration of the trial as no more will be manufactured until the decision is made. The longer the trial continued, the worse the availability issue would become.

We have also had to provide an answer to Ovington as to whether they should design the new foredeck to accept the Kappa or the C section.

The facts that we were faced with are:

1. Staying with the C is not a long term option 2. Everyone that had tried and/or seen the Kappa was happy with it. 3. The increasing prospect of no stock of ANY Lark mast. 4. The opportunity to avoid a lot of ‘old stock’ at stockists by acting quickly. 5. Additional costs if the Ovington Lark was designed for the C and then had to be changed.

In view of this, I therefore proposed to the committee that the Kappa be approved for manufacture and that all masts manufactured prior to the vote on the necessary rule changes be granted dispensation. This was approved after some debate and this is where we are now.

The change was intended to be confirmed by the membership, along with the Ovington hull changes, by postal ballot following approval at the AGM.

In view of the recent interest and debate on the subject, and the need to move quickly to avoid disrupting the entire supply chain, the mast postal ballot has been brought forward and will take place as soon as it can be put together. Be aware that the choice for the mast isn’t C or Kappa, it’s Kappa or keep looking (which means other manufacturers and potentially significant delays in the supply of new masts.

Event Reports

Barnt Green Open Meeting Report by Smashie Bennett

There was a select few of top Lark sailors racing at the Barnt Green Lark Open this year. With some excellent close racing which was thoroughly enjoyable. With a nice breeze and some glorious burn-your-face-if-you-don't-wear-sun-cream weather, the scene was set for a legendary day at Worcestershire's top Sailing Venue.

1st race saw Newly-weds Steve & Nic taking an early lead, having a good battle with Jane and Rach until Jane tacked too close to Steve at a Windward mark seeing her make penalty turns putting them temporarily at the back of the competitive field. Working the magic, Smashie & Karen Jewkes battled their way to a comfy win with Jane & Rach working the shifts to pip Steve on the finish line for 2nd spot.

2nd race Steve & Nic lead again after a solid start and all if not most boats sprinting up the bank in a line-a-breast formation. Steve was fast in the blowy conditions and was holding his place comfortable. Smashie & Karen chipped away and overtook as the wind speed kept changing and shifting around. With some good tactical know-how up the beats, Smashie and Karen took a smooth win with Steve & Nic 2nd, this time making no last minute mistakes and Jane & Rach in a never-far-behind 3rd spot.

Race 3 and Smashie got shut out on the line by Jane who had a fine start with Stuart Norris and crew initially leading and looking in command. Jane & Rachael came through to first and started to extend a lead which they held for a lap. Smashie & Karen with it all to do playing catch-up over an extended 'Challenge Trophy Race' managed to make some goods calls on the breeze patches to overhaul Steve & Nic who were in 3rd and then go after Jane & Rach in the closing minutes of the hour. Again some excellent tactics up the main beat saw them slide into the Number One spot for a clean-sweep of Victories. Steve & Nicola also overhauled Jane and Rach on a shifty beat gaining their 2nd place and Jane & Rachael also in a familiar 3rd spot.

It was then time to drop off the crews and for a select few to entertain our spinnaker handling friends with the Single Handed Lark Race!! Everyone had a nice clean start with Tony Hotchkiss spotting a shift and tacking up the bank to begin with. This time it was a return to the lead for Steve Cumley with Smashie nipping at his transom all the way round the track. Steve bravely hoisted his kite on a number of legs to gain an advantage, but with Smashie ever present slipped past to secure another victory. With Jane ‘no-balls’ Alexander sitting out this comical finale Stuart Norris from Shropshire secured 3rd.

Thanks and admiration must go to Barnt Green SC and Bob Suggitt for organizing a superb event that was fantastically enjoyed by everyone.

1st 2487 Richard “Smashie” Bennett & Karen Jewkes, Staunton Harold SC 2nd 2496 Steve & Nicky Cumley, Barnt Green SC 3rd 2132 Jane Alexander & Rachael Rhodes, South Staffs SC 4th 2517 Stuart & Louise Norris, Shropshire SC 5th 2468 Tony Hotchkiss & Pippa Vick, South Staffs SC 6th 2467 Bob Suggitt & Freddie Locket, Barnt Green SC

Shropshire Open Meeting Report by Tony Hotchkiss

Another day of glorious weather and tight competition for the Midland & North Region circuit at Shropshire continued the need for plentiful supplies of sun cream! However this time the wind was in short supply and where you went was as important as how fast you got there! This did not however, stop "Smashie" Bennett from making it two event wins in a row.

The water was shared with the Club sailors for their regatta and it was comforting to see that they also struggled with the conditions. With a separate start, the first race in the Lark fleet got away well and by reading some interesting wind shifts Tony Hotchkiss & Pippa Vick rounded the first mark just in front of Stuart & Julia Allen. These two had a real ding-dong for most of the race with Smashie & Nicola Booth not far away. Eventually Stuart & Julia took the lead and then by selecting the best route and with great boat speed Smashie & Nic worked their way to the front to take the gun.

After a great lunch the course was changed and Stuart & Charlotte Norris took an early lead. This time the only one in contention was Smashie & Nic and they just worked away to reduce the lead until they passed to another impressive win. The following boats all had huge wind shift issues and many place changes, but from an awful start Ruth Johnson & Rachel Rhodes pulled through to secure third place.

In the final race Smashie & Nic made another great start as did Stuart & Julia, who led at the first mark, with Tony & Pippa in third. On the second lap Stuart & Julia lost out big time and Chris & Anne Biglin came storming into contention. The lead then swapped at regular intervals as the boats either found or lost the shifts! Tony & Pippa and Chris & Anne were definitely having the biggest scrap with Smashie & Nic ready to pounce if either team gave ground. Despite a flourish from Stuart & Julia that died with the wind shift, Tony & Pippa held it together to win the race from Chris & Anne, with Smashie & Nic just behind.

The win gave Tony & Pippa the clear 2nd place for the event but with no less than three boats on 6 points it needed a trip to the rulebook to untangle the final places!

Although this was another fairly small event, Shropshire SC made the Lark fleet really welcome and arranged great racing in extremely variable conditions. What they may lack in facilities they certainly makeup for by location and friendliness in this beautiful part of Shropshire.

1st 2487 Richard "Smashie" Bennett & Nicola Booth, Staunton Harold SC 2nd 2468 Tony Hotchkiss & Pippa Vick, South Staffs SC 3rd 2515 Chris & Anne Biglin, Shustoke SC 4th 2301 Stuart & Julia Allen, Northampton SC 5th 2517 Stuart & Charlotte Norris, Shropshire SC 6th 2347 Ruth Johnson & Rachel Rhodes, South Staffs SC

Royal Harwich Open Meeting Report

Royal Harwich YC based on the River Orwell hosted 27 Larks on the weekend of 6 th /7 th June. Race officer, Graham Ireland once again set his own brand of quirky courses to cause much confusion through out the fleet. Conditions over the weekend were mixed and were particularly cold and miserable on the Sunday.

Alan Krailing & Edd McArdle demonstrated an almost metronomic consistency throughout the weekend to win convincingly. The question now is have they peaked too early for the Nationals? In form, Smashie Bennett sailing with Karen Jewkes improved throughout the weekend to take a very good second place. Current National Champions, Chris Fish & Beth Condie, seem to be timing the defence of their championship to perfection. They scored a solid third place overall and could very well peak when it matters.

For the second year the Silver Fleet was won by Holly Hewat sailing with Ruth Johnson. It was good to see so many of the Silver fleeters mixing it with the gold fleet sailors at the front of the fleet.

Neil Barrett & Sophie Jones made the long trip from Leeds worthwhile by winning the Bronze Fleet from former champion crew, Eluned Jones who is now at the blunt end of the boat and worrying many a seasoned helm!

The weather dampened the usual interclass games night with the Firefly’s and N12’s but there was still plenty of Sumo wrestling and indoor boat racing to be had.

The Lark Class would like to thank Royal Harwich for another superbly run event and we look forward to returning next year.

1st 2464 Alan Krailing & Edd McArdle, Waldringfield SC 2nd 2487 Richard “Smashie” Bennett & Karen Jewkes, Staunton Harold SC 3rd 2494 Chris Fish & Beth Condie, Waldringfield SC 4th 2311 Emma Harris & Becky Priest, Waldringfield SC 5th 2470 Nigel Hufton & Andy Douglas, Frensham Pond SC 6th 2257 Ian & Alyson Videlo, Waldringfield SC

Medway Open Meeting Report by Alan Krailing

Medway Yacht Club hosted the 6th round of the Lark Belle Isle. On Saturday all looked good for a cracking sail and race 1 got underway in a decent breeze. After a short beat and a very long run down river the wind dropped as the fleet rounded the leeward mark, the fleet split with the leaders heading right up the beet and the others keeping far left, everyone looking to stay out the tide. The left paid massively and Steve Hall & Simon Haighton came from the back of the fleet to take a convincing first place from Harry Pynn & Helen Krailing.

Race 2 started in very light winds and a very strong tide. Alan Krailing & Edd McArdle took an early lead but as they sat in a hole the course was shortened. Father and Son team David & Nick Marlow sailed straight to the finish to take first place as confusion reigned. Steve Chatten & Karen Jewkes took second and Nigel Hufton & Andy Douglas were third.

The open meeting was shared with the Wayfarers and The Larks proved their talents have hidden depths taking an astonishing first and second in the inter-fleet pub quiz.

Sunday was as predicted weather wise with less wind than Saturday. In a snakes and ladders race Alan and Edd happened to be in front when the finish gun went with Chris & Ann Biglin coming through for 2nd and guest helm Jon Ibbotson & Ally Dart taking 3rd. Sensibly the race officer then called it a day and with one discard Alan and Edd won the event.

1st 2464 Alan Krailing & Edd McArdle, Waldringfield SC 2nd 2442 Jon Ibbotson & Ally Dart, Medway YC 3rd 2470 Nigel Hufton & Andy Douglas, Frensham Pond SC 4th 2462 David & Nick Marlow 5th 2492 Steve Hall & Simon Haighton, Northampton SC 6th 2515 Chris & Ann Biglin, Shustoke SC

Club Scene

Club news will return in the next issue of Lark eNews so please send us your club related news articles. We want to know who has joined your fleet, who’s sailing, how their doing and what events you have planned. Even if you’re not an established Lark fleet let us know and we’ll add it to the newsletter.

If you would like to tell the Lark fleet about what is going on at your club then please email [email protected] .

Remaining 2009 Fixtures

4/5 July Mayflower SC Open Meeting (BI09) Dan Watson 07919 542361 12 July West Kirby SC Open Meeting (MNR) Tim Lawrence 01925 730034 25-31 July Brixham YC National Championships Steve Chatten 07971 401152 5/6 September Carsington SC Inland Championships (MNR/BI09) Dan Watson 07919 542361 19/20 September West Lancashire YC 24 Hour Race Mal Postance 01704 530840 3 October Shustoke SC Open Meeting (MNR) Chris Biglin 0121 308 7632 10 October Hayling Island SC Masters Championships Club Office 023 9246 3768 11 October Hayling Island SC Open Meeting (BI09) Club Office 023 9246 3768 31 October Frensham Pond SC Youth Championships Chris Ellis 01256 703402 1 November Frensham Pond SC Open Meeting (BI09) Chris Ellis 01256 703402 21/22 November Northampton SC Winter Championships (BI10) Ian Castle 01933 383254

For full details of future events please visit the Lark Class website – www.larkclass.org