Organised by the new Commodore at Gravesend Sailing Club, Sean, and the sailing secretary Kevin, the Gravesend sailors were the first to make their way to Greenhithe knowing that against the tide it would take at least two hours to tow the dinghies to the race start line. Being the first club to arrive they secured their dinghies onto Greenhithe Buoys then made their way to the Pier Pub to await the arrival of Erith and Thurrock.
Fifteen boats from all three clubs arrived to compete. The race officer explained the course, which was for two laps around a straightforward triangular course, in near perfect sailing conditions; 25 degrees and a stiff ENE breeze. Once the briefing was complete all crews were ferried back to their boats for the 1315 race start.
Thurrock provided the committee boat to start and time the races, while other cruisers joined and anchored to watch, as well as other members viewing from the shoreline.
Once the race got underway there were lots of small battles between groups of boats all through the fleet with Lasers competing for first place, Wayfarers and Dayboats slugging it out and even a Topper and Drascombe Lugger joining the race.
The second race was reduced to one lap to ensure all arrived back at the pier for the 1500 deadline.
Races complete, the Pier Pub put on a delicious BBQ, as the bar was overrun with thirsty sun scorched sailors requiring refreshment.
By 1700 the tide had begun to turn and with a strengthening wind many of the dinghies opted for an exhilarating sail back to their clubs accompanied by their ever watchful safety boats. As tired crews packed away their boats, there was a general consensus that although a long day it had been an epic one which all felt should be repeated next year.
With thanks to Sean and Kevin from Gravesend for deciding to bring the three local clubs together once again to race, to Joe from Thurrock, John from Erith and finally to the Pier Hotel for a super welcome, food and refreshment. Community sailing at its best.