Report by Ian Trotter
Musto Skiff Event at Fortrose: A Memorable Weekend of Sailing and Hospitality
The recent Musto Skiff event at Chanonry Sailing Club in Fortrose was not just a test of skill on the water, but also a testament to the camaraderie and warmth of the sailing community. For many of us, the journey to this picturesque spot on the Moray Firth required a bit of travel, but it was well worth the effort. Fortrose, with its stunning views and welcoming atmosphere, provided the perfect backdrop for a weekend of intense racing and even better company.
Upon arrival, we were greeted with the kind of hospitality that Fortrose is renowned for. The locals ensured that we were well looked after, with a weekend filled with good food and plenty of laughs. It’s safe to say that the shore-side activities were almost as enjoyable as the sailing itself.
The first day of racing was as thrilling as it was challenging, with strong winds that tested everyone’s limits. In the first race, Ian Trotter led the charge, rounding the first windward mark with Jamie Hilton and Euan Hurter close behind. The excitement ramped up as they hoisted their kites for an exhilarating and fast-paced downwind leg. The three boats were neck-and-neck, making for a closely contested race. However, the intense conditions took their toll—Ian capsized during the second run, and Ewan followed suit on the third, which allowed Jamie to seize the opportunity and sail to victory.
The punishing winds meant that only three boats—Euan, Jamie, and Ben Yeats—braved the second race. Fatigue and the testing conditions were evident, with both Jamie and Ben suffering multiple capsizes. Euan, displaying great resilience and skill, managed to stay upright and secure the win, bringing a dramatic first day of racing to a close.
Day two dawned with much lighter conditions, allowing for more tactical racing. In the first race, Euan took the win, while Ian had to deploy some tight defensive sailing, sitting on Jamie to secure second place and leaving Jamie to finish third. The second race saw similar conditions, with Euan again showing his mastery in the lighter airs to take the win, Jamie finishing second, and Ian in third.
The final race of the day turned into a complete drifter, with the wind almost disappearing entirely. In these tricky conditions, Jamie managed to snatch victory from Euan on a shortened course, while Ian (Trotter) just held off a strong challenge from Ian Morton to take third place.
In the end, it was Euan Hurter who claimed the top spot overall, with Jamie Hilton close behind in second, and Ian Trotter rounding out the podium in third. However, the real victory was in the shared experience, as every participant walked away with a prize, a reminder of the inclusive and supportive nature of our sailing community.
All in all, the Chanonry Sailing Club event was a fantastic weekend, combining the thrill of racing with the joy of spending time with like-minded sailors. We left with not just prizes, but also fond memories and a strong desire to return to this beautiful spot in the future.
Overall Results
Overall results:
http://www.results.chanonry.org.uk/2024/Skiff_2024.htm
Feature Image: 2024 Musto Skiff Traveller / © Stuart Brown
