QUOILE YACHT CLUB

RYA Honda Youth RIB Heats

The Quoile finals took place on Sunday 28 May 2006. The course was laid in front of the club where members enjoying ladies day had a grandstand view. It was tricky and tight in places and a good test of driving skills.

In the 8-12 years class Sophie Murphy had a clear run and managed a class winning time of 1min 48 secs. Emma Sandford was a close second with a best time of 2mins 19 secs. Sophie and Emma now go through to the Regional finals in Bangor on 10 June. Luke Sandford and Emma Bready drove well but were unfortunate to collect penalty points. Next year, as they get older they are going to shine through and should be able to win this age group.

In the 12-16 age group competition was fierce with past regional and national winners in the line up.

Paul Magowan, going for a very fast time in his first year in this class, started very quickly but spun out at a very tight part of the course and put himself out of contention for the medals.

Colin Stewart and Gordon Baker drove excellent courses and although picking up penalties, finished with good times of 1min 33secs(Colin) and 1min 43 secs(Gordon)

It was left to Hammy Baker in his last year and Drew Magowan to fight it out for the medals. Hammy's best time was 1 min 10 secs but with one penalty gave him a best of 1 min 15 secs. Drew Magowan equalled Hammy's time on his first run but was clean. Drews second run was fast and clear and had a winning time of 1 min 06 secs. Drew and Hammy now go forward to the Regional finals.

Thanks to Michael Bready and Drew Rickard for being brave enough to sit in the boats with the competitors. Also Liam McKeating and John Magowan for acting as course layers and time keepers. Well done everyone!