Seven skippers competed for this year’s Underwood Memorial Shield on a bright and warm day but with little breeze and the ever present threat of showers.

As is normal for this annual competition, two courses were sailed alternatively, the first being from between Buoys 5 and 6 to Buoys 1, 5 and 7. After two laps, the finish was from Buoy 7 to the line at Buoy 8. The alternate course was from the same start line to Buoy 8 then clockwise around the perimeter of the lake again finishing at Buoy 8.

Colin Aldred started the day with determination and won the first two races ahead of arch rival Neil Thornton and Brian Hartley respectively Neil then won the next three races ahead of Colin, Brian and Paul Beardshaw in the second places. Colin and Neil would have shared all the wins of the day but for a superb sail by George Younger who squeezed over the line ahead of the duo in Race 7.

The breeze was sufficient to keep all the boats moving steadily with occasional gusts which resulted in some close racing and thrilling finishes. Unsurprisingly it ended up in a close call between Neil and Colin with Neil edging in front on the day by just two points. Brian Hartley finished up in a very creditable third place three points ahead of Paul.

Many thanks to John Foster for giving up his time to keep us all under control, keep the scores and present the prizes to the winner and runners-up.