Downriver Race Report – 15 February 2025

A cold grey February morning with a westerly F1 was not the most promising of starts, but nine boats went out and after an hour of competitive racing five of Ranelagh’s finest lined up for a photo finish!  

Richard Westover led the charge off the start line, with Nigel Edwards and James Hayward close behind. A tactical tacking duel unfolded, the classic Thames shifts and lulls playing a crucial role in determining positions. Nigel Edwards rounded the downriver buoy first, expertly positioned by Alastair Smith in the safety boat. Hot on his heels were Richard Westover and Richard Jarvis.  Meanwhile, at the back of the fleet, Henri Verroken, Matteo Perrazo and George McWhirter were side by side around the turn.  

Boat speed and astute wind reading proved decisive on the final reach upriver, past Putney Bridge, with Richard Jarvis emerged ahead.  Richard Westover and Paul Hanley hugged the north bank spotting the stronger wind channel and were quickly onto the leading pack.  It was bow to bow over the final 50m with Nigel taking line honours by bosuns knot.  However, it was Will Mackinlay who ultimately claimed victory on corrected time.