The Mirror Northerns at Bass on 14th & 15th May had Seventeen entries this year. Five races were scheduled, three on Saturday and a final two on Sunday. The former day’s wind was westerly with adequate strength to keep boats moving but without any overpowering gusts. It was a bright and sunny day which suited competitors and spectators alike.
Bright sunshine and a rare but welcome steady wind, directly down the flash, greeted 23 Boats from 15 clubs to the Northern Area Championships.
7 different leaders in Race 1 pointed to a competitive weekend ahead and competitors and spectators were not to be disappointed, with a series of five thrilling races.
Twelve Mirrors took part in the event. No less than 9 were GB team members. Five races, 4 to count. The constant NE wind force 2 to 3 with a spring tide made the event an exercise in tide and current. The fleet was divided into those who used the tide to advantage and those who did not. It was chocolates for the over thirties. Guy Wilkins and Alan Bennett were never to be challenged after race I and 2 it was clear that the championship was going to go to one of these experienced sailors.
Five races with one discard. Wild blustery weather with some sunshine and capsizes galore. A lovely setting and fantastic hospitality, with the Club volunteers working so hard to make it a memorable weekend.
The event was hosted by West Riding Sailing Club, Wintersett Reservoir, nr. Wakefield, Yorks.
A full entry of 50 boats had been reached some time ago and of these, 47 boats arrived and enjoyed a weekend of perfect weather, even though the winds were very light on the first day. The level of the lake had been somewhat reduced due to the drought, but there was in fact, ample room, and the Race Committee, although harrassed by wind shifts prior to the starts managed to lay some very good courses, which produced some very interesting and exciting racing.
