Kirk Stamford defied gusts of over 30 miles per hour to win the Topper Traveller Open at Ely Sailing Club last weekend.

Sixteen sailors – eight of which were visitors – went head-to-head and saw Ted Pepper take an early lead in the opening race.

But he was forced to settle for second place after Kirk overtook him and clinched the win. Visitor Seb Grotto finished in third.

Kirk’s win in the second race was more straightforward; the youngster lead from the start and held off the challenge of Ted and Seb to seal the win.

Kirk then clinched his hat-trick of wins in the third race – a battle which saw Ted hit by a spectacular capsize, allowing guest James Denney to claim third place. Grotto finished in second.

Grotto waited until the final race to claim his first win, overtaking Kirk at the midway point.

Ted capsized again and James took advantage of this to finish in third.