Flasheart in good form but outshone by Jessie James in combined fleet harbour handicap

Four division two yachts and a sole division one boat formed a combined fleet for a flying start handicap harbour course race across Princess Royal Harbour on Saturday.

The race was held in a gentle southwest wind that ranged from five to 10 knots throughout, but stayed strong enough for all yachts to complete the course.

Stephen Lee hoisted a spinnaker seconds after the start, taking everyone by surprise as he slipped to the lead for the first two legs before Brett Hawker in Jessie James cruised to the front, where he stayed for the duration.

Neil Worrell was again sporting a huge spinnaker on Zuri and stayed in touch early in the event.

Peter Bane was away smartly with Dunluce but, opting to go JAM, was found wanting and trailed the fleet.

Chris Oldham took a while to get going and unfortunately had to retire midway through the race with a crew member feeling unwell.

Flasheart was able to put pressure on the larger Jessie James, which increased its lead to finish first and be declared the winner in the combined fleet, with Flasheart in second place in a mighty effort.

Zuri finished in third place well in front of Dunluce.

In the division two results, Flasheart was first and fastest, with Zuri easily second and Dunluce getting third place points.

This weekend will be the Cock of the Harbour race and the final race for the autumn series.