The Closed Regatta is always a well attended event which serves a couple of additional purposes, over and above traditional club racing.
First of all it allows sailors who are perhaps new to racing, to experience Regatta conditions complete with class flags, racing signals, accurately laid courses, true start lines and staggered class starts, all of which add something a little extra to the experience.
It also allows willing club volunteers some practice in setting up for a Regatta in a slightly less pressured environment, compared to what we'd find in our Open Regatta or a National Championship.
As with all of our events, we rely heavily on members helping out, learning new skills and supporting each other to put on events which keep the club rolling. The Closed Regatta is one of these events which helps enable the club to be so highly thought of when it comes to putting on a show. Make no mistake, from Hayling Island to Channonry, we are well known for it. So kudos to all those who step up. A quote from a pal who used to work at HISC said before the 200 Nationals "ELYC has a great name. Uncorked at hayling Island sailing club for 5 years (brilliant job didn't even know you could be employed by a sailing club!) But everyone bar none rated elyc for venue hospitality and race mgt."
The 2023 Closed Regatta was no different and on behalf of the competitors we'd like to thank John, Mick and Keith on the Committee Boat. Ellen, Brendan, Simon, Fiona, Daniel and Jon on the RIBs. Anna on the Beach and of course Ainsley, Alistair and Debbie for covering the absolutely critical Bar-and-Pies aspect of the show. Sincere apologies if we've missed anyone here. (If we have, please let us know)
On the sailing front, we were provided with sunshine, light breeze and a slightly confused sea which eventually settled as the day wore on. The race committee and RIB crews did a great job of setting and adjusting the course as the breeze shifted slightly during the day. The fleet were treated to 3 good races with two being of the triangle variety, either side of a windward leeward. Results and pictures are available below.
Thanks and well done to all!
1) Sailing Instructions
2) Final Results Silver
3) Final Results Gold
4) Pictures from the day
