Bexhill regatta shows competitive sailing is well and truly back

A diamond shaped course was set on Saturday, when the wind strengthened and the sea got heavier.

After waiting many months, the fleet presented a very rusty start, leading to the commodore abandoning the first race.

A second start was swiftly organised for a fleet ranging from Catamarans, RSs, Lasers , Comets and a a Topper.

Capsizes were frequent and equipment tested, in some cases to destruction.

The club boats were kept very busy, with one even rescuing the other after a brief engine fault.

By lunchtime there were leaders to carry through to day two.

On Sunday, sea conditions were more sublime to begin with, though racing finished just before a heavy squall came up the channel.

An impressive 25 boats contested the races, with the wind strength suiting the catamarans and Lasers.

Again a few sailors had an early bath.

The quality of the sailors, ranging in ages from in their 70s to young Logan Adams, aged 12, demonstrates what a rewarding sport sailing can be for a lifetime.

Colin Coard took first place with his Laser, from Rob Harrison and Tony Lane.

The Cats were flying, but it was the Shoesmiths, Rob and Rupert, who won the trophy ahead of a hard -chasing Malcolm Brookes and Keith Edwards, with Simon North third.

The slow fleet gave Richard Eagleton the opportunity to demonstrate his skills. He won ahead of Lee Roberts and Carol Pedleston.

In the cadets Logan Adams sailed manfully among the big boys to take first ahead of Oliver Brookes’ Comet.

After the long lay-off all are thankful racing is back.

Call in for a chat about the club any time you see the flag flying.