Cruiser Long Distance Race

Published 19:53 on 11 Jun 2023

After several emails during the weeks before the race, 5 boats expressed interest in taking part in this year's Long Distance Cruiser race. But on the day there were only two boats: Chris Callender in his Leisure 17 Scherzo and Alastair Johnson at the helm of his Westerly Griffon Pegasus II.

The start was at Inchmickery at 0800 on Saturday 10th June so both skippers had an early start to the day. The wind was F4 easterly so a reef was put by both men before the start.

The first leg was a long beat to Herwit Wreck buoy, leaving West Gunnet to port. Conditions showed the reefs were needed.

Than a close reach to No 4 Channel Marker. Although the main channel had been busy it was empty as we rounded the mark. With the final mark being Pallas Rock to starboard, a decision had to be made on which side to leave inchkeith. Pegasus II opted to go north, and there was a long run to the finish as the wind rose to a force 5.

After the finish the boats anchored to the west of Inch Mickery to wait for the tide in the evening.

The skippers spent a quiet afternoon, eating lunch, snoozing and doing some minor boat maintenance.

It was a great sail, and really enjoyed by those that took part. Hope to see more boats taking part next year.