FANTASTIC weather gave competitors at the Merlin Rocket Open Championship a great weekend of competitive racing.

Weymouth Sailing Club (WSC) hosted the event as part of the annual Silver Tiller Championship for the Merlin Rocket Class.

In order to qualify for the Silver Tiller, competitors needed to have attended at least five open events taking place at three different types of venue, river, inland and coastal waters.

The fleet of more than 20 boats was made up of entries from as far away as Yorkshire.

A total of five races were completed for the Silver Tiller prize with a special race also taking place for the Middleton-Stewart Bowl.

On the first day, the wind was light and there was only one individual recall.

By the second day, the wind had increased and the fleet became more competitive, resulting a black flag start.

The Open trophy was won by 2012 Olympic Silver Medallist in the 470 class, Stuart Bithell, and Tom Perch.

The winners of the Middleton-Stewart Bowl were Jane and Mike Calvert from Axe Yacht Club in Devon.

The pair were delighted to win the trophy for the second time.

The duo of Mike and Penny Fenwick were the highest placed WSC boat in 14th whilst Michael and Robin Clifton Dey finished 19th.

Weymouth sailors Phil and Ali Ashworth placed 22nd.