The faster IRC fleet started at 08.00 hrs and the PY fleets started at 08.15 in a heavy swell caused by an overnight gale. Most yachts had “reefed down” in anticipation of a fast but wet sail to France, which indeed it turned out to be with the wind dropping to Force 4 by the afternoon but with persistent rain squalls throughout the day.

It was a fast race for most boats with “Soleil III” from Sovereign Harbour Yacht Club gaining line honours as the first finisher after 8hrs 49 minutes.

There was then a steady procession of yachts crossing the finish line at Fecamp throughout the evening, their crews having enjoyed a wet but exciting 70 mile race.

Winner of the IRC fleet was “Jagga” owned by John Duffy of Brighton Marina Yacht Club. Winners of the 3 PY fleets were “Spirit of Defiance”,  owned by Mark Jephcott (Fast PY), “Uptown Girl”  owned by Tony Puttock (Medium PY) and “Riff Raff” owned by Robert Springate (Slow PY).