Craftinsure Wayfarer National Circuit 2024 - Mid Season Report
by Sam Pygall 13 Jul 2024 13:29 BST
Wayfarer Inlands 2024 at Datchet © DWSC
With the conclusion of the recent National Championships at Paignton Sailing Club, the Craftinsure UK Wayfarer National Circuit, generously supported by title sponsor Craftinsure with additional support from McNamara Sails, Hartley Boats and Allen Brothers has reached its half-way point.
The venues have seen close competition among the boats, reflected by the fact that each National Circuit event had a different winning team.
- Inland Championships - Datchet Water- Andrew and Tom Wilson
- Westerns - Banbury Sailing Club - Nigel and Belinda O'Donnell
- Pre-Nationals - Shoreham Sailing Club - Ian Foxwell and Sam Pygall
- Nationals - Paignton Sailing Club - Michael McNamara and Simon Townsend
There is plenty to look forward to in the second half of the year from a Wayfarer racing perspective! What sets the Wayfarer community apart is its welcoming nature and strong bonds between sailors. Newcomers are embraced with open arms, and seasoned Wayfarer racers are always willing to offer support and advice. These events offer an opportunity to experience some great racing and off the water socials!
In that spirit and looking ahead, mark your calendars for the Southern Area Championship, which will take place on July 27th-28th at Arun Yacht Club. This picturesque seaside town in Littlehampton, known for its rich sailing and fishing history, will offer captivating and challenging sailing conditions. Don't miss out on this highly anticipated event and ensure your entry is submitted early to secure your spot. You can register for the Southern Area Championship at Open meetings at AYC - Arun Yacht Club.
Following closely after, the Eastern Area Championship will be held on August 3rd-4th at Aldeburgh Yacht Club, situated on the beautiful River Alde. Aldeburgh boasts a great home fleet of Wayfarers, as demonstrated by Team Sydenham's impressive performance at the Nationals in Paignton. Prepare to witness top-level competition and be a part of this thrilling event.
In late August (25th-30th), all harbour racing enthusiasts should mark their calendars for Poole Week, a must-do event in the sailing calendar. With a strong home fleet of Wayfarers, this event promises exhilarating racing and unforgettable moments on the water.
In an exciting addition to the Wayfarer racing calendar, Leigh and Lowton Sailing Club will play host to the Northern Area Championships on August 31st - September 1st in 2024. This will be followed by the Cartoon Trophy at the Waldringfield Sailing Club, known for its rich Wayfarer heritage. The circuit will then return to Blackwater Sailing Club on October 5th-6th, a venue that has consistently provided outstanding events in the past.
The climax of the 2024 National Circuit, in line with tradition, will take place at Bough Beech Sailing Club on November 9th-10th. This year, competitors will have the opportunity to compete for the prestigious Nipegegi trophy, generously donated by the Hodshon family, which will be awarded to the first "classic" Wayfarer (pre MK-IV). Previous years have shown that several non-MK IV Wayfarers have excelled at this fantastic inland venue, adding an extra level of excitement to this year's competition. Owners of classic Wayfarers are encouraged to join in and showcase their skills.
As the second half of the sailing season unfolds, there is no better time to become part of the Wayfarer racing community. For more information about Wayfarer racing or any specific events mentioned above, please don't hesitate to reach out via email at . Get ready for an exhilarating second half of the sailing season!