Phantom National Championship at Highcliffe Sailing Club - Overall

Prize giving in the Phantom Nationals at Highcliffe © Sarah Desjonqueres

Prize giving in the Phantom Nationals at Highcliffe © Sarah Desjonqueres

Racing was brought forward today as the forecast beyond 1300 hrs was deteriorating rapidly with the wind swinging to the south and building to gale force gusts.

The intention was to try and get three races in and the fleet set off hoping that things did not go too wrong too quickly.

The forecast looked accurate as the wind quickly built, although fitful at times for the first race. Harry did what was required and won putting the pressure on and potentially a title race with Andy Couch coming 4th after a small gybing issue..

Fatigue was starting to show amongst the fleet and place changes were many due to mistakes and unforced errors.

The wind built to a good 4 gusting 5 before the second race and a tough race ensued. Again Harry nailed it and Andy was second. Sadly the forecast was wholly accurate and we shall never know if Harry could have taken the title as the last race was abandoned, with good cause!

The fleet battled back to shore and conditions worsened considerably, so much so that the Commodore who is on the lifeboat crew only made it to the latter stages of the prizegiving having been called out on a rescue.

The helms gathered for the prize giving where the club and volunteers were thanked by numerous competitors for putting on a superb championships in a great venue with such a welcoming attitude.

The Class would also like to thank the supporting sponsors, Forbes Capital, P&B, Vicky's Embroidery services, and Ovington Boats. Also Mike Birbeck for providing his wonderful drone footage.

So Andy Couch claimed yet another Phantom National Championship, but hard fought against a good fleet including the two previous National Champions in the top three.

Prizes were also awarded for age related achievements within the fleet but mostly just for a great bunch of people finding a good excuse to get together and enjoy all the aspects of a bit of sailing with their mates.

Overall Results:
If you finished in the top ten at the Phantom nationals then enter your Gear Guide information here