RACE five of the Fambridge Yacht Haven winter series was held in gusty conditions.

Sunday’s race started with a force three south west wind with 16 boats taking the line.

The course was to Crossrail 1, Raypitts, Bill Bunyan, Crossrail 1, Bill Bunyan and then the finish at the North Fambridge Yacht Club line.

A good start was made by most of the boats and with an increasing south west wind the fleet streamed off to the first mark at Crossrail 1. Those who chose to fly the spinnaker soon reversed their decision as the gusts were soon hitting 25 knots.

One of the competitors had to cut the kite loose as the wind rose to 30 kts and the halyard jammed on the drop, another suffered a damaged headsail and two boats were stuck on the mud at Point.

Over the radio the news came that another local club had cancelling further racing for the day after damage to their dinghy fleet.

With high water approaching and a steady force six-sevensouth west wind, the race was shortened to take Bill Bunyan out and finish on the last leg at the club.

The winners were Posh Totty, with Voyager second and RiFiFI third, with five retirements.

Presentations and refreshments were held in the North Fambridge Yacht Club.

Results Fambridge Yacht Haven winter series race five: 1 Posh Totty (Hanse 43), 2 Voyager (Dufour 32), 3 RiFiFi (Robber 3E), 4 Ngahue 11 (Hallberg 37), 5 Seewievke (Najad 380), 6 Midnight Mojito (Elan 350), 7 Daydreamer (Dehlar 36), 8 Wizzard (Westerly Griffin), 9 Seven Isles (Horizon 27), 10 Orca (Ben 311 Lift Keel), 11 Rumours (GK 29).

RTD: Ariane (Ben 343), Burgler (Robber 3), Cara (Ben 311 (fin)), Chelena (Sadler 32), Summer Wine (Legend 34).