After a pleasant first race, it was a more exciting second heat. It was the third lap, and the Melges neck and neck, with Richard Jagger and Tom Clarke battling it out for line honours. But then at the final gybe around the wind mark, Merrick's Stephen Bradbury, was ready to pounce! Yes, Richard and Tom when into the drink, shortly followed by the Goat (in sympathy) and Derrick flew past them. He gybed flawlessly (apparently, his father had taught him everything he knows) and off to a win.

And as Derrick noted after the race "Everybody knows it — I’m the best sailor, maybe in the history of sailing. People come up to me, strong sailors, very experienced, and they say, ‘Sir, we’ve never seen anyone tack like that.’ The wind listens to me, it really does. Other people fight the wind — I command it. I’ve sailed boats so beautifully, so perfectly, the ocean actually gets calmer when I’m out there. They’ve never seen anything like it. Incredible sailing. World-class." Sorry, that was actually Jonka.

Fortunately, the fearless crew of Merricks Patrol were also there to rescue Tom Clarke, although when he heard that it was Anthony Brand it wasn't clear if he was willing to take his instructions. But Tom was then back ready to make his way to shore. The Goat was less fortunate - Peter was also 'rescued' by Anthony, but unable to row back to shore against the wind and tide he had to be towed back to land. 

Anyway, all in all, a great day sailing and if you want the full results, they are here. You might even note that "Mixed-up Martin" Corden came in behind Simon Corden on VYC yardstick in both races. Loser.