BUSA
5-6 November 2005
The first day of racing got underway in strong south-westerly winds of 20-23 knots, gusting 25-27 knots at times which kept the rescue fleet busy! Racing was run on two courses- the Lasers and Laser 2's on one, and the Larks, Fireflys and Handicap fleet on the other. Both got underway more or less on schedule although only completed one race each as the weather was proving a bit much for the boats and the sailors! However, much fun was had at Rendez-Vous- tthe second social of the weekend.

With consistent winds on 25-30 knots on Sunday, gusting up to 50 knots, the decision was made to cancel racing for both courses at 10am. However, only one race was needed to decide the Championship so the prize giving went ahead at 11am. Team winners were Exeter on 6 points (1,2,3 in the Laser fleet), followed by Southampton University on 9 points (1,4 in the Handicap and 9 in the Lasers) with Glasgow University only two points behind (1,4 and 6 in the Laser 2).

Full Results
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Olympian shines with display of saving grace
By Matthew Syed
(Taken from The Times on Wednesday October 26)

Our Sporting Inspirations series continues with a soggy outing for youngsters in Ben Ainslie's company THOSE who associate sailing with the mellifluous lyrics of the 1974 Rod Stewart ballad may be surprised to hear that participants in the Olympic version of the genre tend to get cold, wet and very, very tired. Ben Ainslie, who won gold in Sydney and Athens, wakes at 7 in the morning and does 90 minutes of stretching before heading to the water for an hour of boat work and four hours of punishing water-based training before finishing off with an hour of weights. Romantic it ain't.

I met Ainslie at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy during the latest in a series of masterclasses for local youngsters sponsored by The Times and the National Lottery and was blown away by the rigour of his schedule. According to John Derbyshire, the performance director credited with the remarkable recent success of British sailing, it is Ainslie's devotion that separates him from his rivals. "He wakes that little bit earlier and trains that little bit harder," he said. "He has tremendous single-mindedness."

Ainslie's commitment has played havoc with his love life. "Sailing takes up so much of my time that it is difficult to have a 'normal' relationship'," he said. "My last girlfriend found the whole thing difficult to accept, which is why we eventually called it a day."

Given that Ainslie has been described, not without reason, as "the heart-throb of British sailing", the news that he is now single will doubtless send waves through the women's sailing community.

During the question and answer session with the youngsters from Royal Manor College, Ainslie, who will be competing in the Finn class in Beijing in 2008, spoke of his desire to compete in 2012. "I am 28 now so it possible I can still be competitive in seven years' time," he said. "The Olympics is the pinnacle and to participate in front of one's home crowd would be the ultimate experience."

This answer had special resonance given that Weymouth has been selected as the venue for the sailing events at the London Games.

After the Q and A, the youngsters were kitted out in waterproofs and life jackets and taken down to the water to sail with the Olympic champion. All went swimmingly until some of them ended up in the swim. The problems started when the rudder of the boat got caught up in the water filter, causing the boat to flip over. Ainslie demonstrated some nifty footwork to jump up on the side of the boat just as it started to rotate.

The youngsters, however, were less quick and so were grateful when Ainslie helped them out of the sea and back on to dry land. "The rudder got stuck and the boat just tipped over," Mark Cox, 14, said. "Ben was a hero, though, and managed to pull us round again."

Chelsea Webster, also 14, was equally awe-struck. "Being in the boat with Ben was amazing," she said. "I've never sailed before but I'd like to carry on and learn more. I don't think I'll make it as an Olympic sailor in 2012 but I'd love to be involved in the Games when they come to Weymouth."

Sailing is a growing sport in the UK and there is a tremendous sense of optimism among both the elite coaching staff and those involved with the grass roots. The sport is not without its problems, however. It is, for example, notoriously difficult to televise, which is why the BBC seemed to devote more air time to soft lens features with Suzi Perry, the presenter, than the actual sailing events during its coverage of the Olympics from Athens.

The other problem is that sailing has a bewildering variety of disciplines that can confuse the uninitiated. Ainslie won silver in the Laser class in 1996 and gold in 2000 before switching to the Finn, where he won gold again in 2004. Other classes include Star, 49er, Tornado, 470, Neil Pryde RSX, Yngling and Laser Radial. There are 11 Olympic medal events in sailing, which some might regard as disproportionate when you consider that a sport such as squash has none. You will not hear the British complaining, though: sailing is one of our most successful Olympic sports, with 12 medals, including five gold, since 1996.

It is quite possible that Ainslie will successfully go for gold in Beijing and London, something that would make him one of Britain's most successful Olympians. He is not, however, the type who would allow such an accolade to go to his head. This charmingly shy, intensely competitive 28-year-old has his feet firmly on the ground - in a manner of speaking.

SIZEABLE FLOAT

• Since 1994, the National Lottery has invested more than £78 million in sailing at elite and community levels throughout the UK via Sport England, UK Sport, sportscotland, Sports Council for Wales, the Sports Council for Northern Ireland and the Big Lottery Fund
  
• The National Lottery, through Sport England, has invested £3 million into the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy - a venue for the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games
  
• Since 1994, the National Lottery has invested more than £9 billion in projects benefiting young people.

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European 18ft Skiff Grand Prix
16-18 September

The last round of the European 18ft Skiff Grand Prix, incorporating the UK Nationals, came to a dramatic conclusion at Weymouth this weekend. With this leg, the European Grand Prix and UK titles all coming down to the last race, it was thrilling finale to an outstanding three days of racing. The event started very much with the storm before the calm! Friday dawned cloudy with a stiff 30knots blowing from the unseasonal North Easterly direction. While the J24s finished the last race of their World Championship in the Bay, the skiffs waited patiently for the wind to abate slightly in order to launch safely from a difficult lee shore. Late afternoon eventually provided the right window, the 14 strong fleet carefully set-off in front a big crowd of J sailors pondering the crazyness of these skiff sailors! Once on the course set inside the flat waters of the harbour all the teams were in their element sailing in ideal No2 rig conditions averaging 25 knots, with gusts recorded at 32knots!

GP Covers from Denmark were the early leaders, and apart from a fluffed kite hoist on the third race of the day would have ended up with a perfect scoreline. A major port / starboard collision between Hermes and Base1 put pay to a great performance to those two teams, and indeed Base1 was so badly damaged from the ensuing carnage that it had to pull out of the event altogether. Hermes recovered and posted a 3rd and 1st to place them in second. Radii, out to avenge their defeat on home waters last year in Scotland at the UK Nationals, put in a steady 3,2,2 to ensure they kept in the hunt. Barron and Smithers, battling all season with GP Covers for the overall Grand Prix title started disastrously when their No2 rig collapsed on the first downwind. A quick change to their No1 rig saw them out for the third race and a gutsy performance struggling in conditions saw them hang onto a fourth place, and with potential for two discards in the series with a slim chance  of challenging GP Covers. Newly assembled team of HurleyPalmerFlatt saw the surprise of the day posting a 2,4,5 looking to upset the usual suspects. Further down the fleet capsizes, carnage and tales of massive wipe outs ensured that only half the fleet actually scored any results.

Saturday brought a welcome reduction in the wind strength with a steady 8-10knots from the North East again. Two short races followed by a long distance round the Bay confirmed GP covers at the top of the rankings, with another 1,2 only spoilt by a 6th in the longer race. Barron and Smithers made amends for Friday by picking up the other two race wins while Radii and Hermes posted some consistent results to keep them in the hunt for overall honours. Fat Face at last showed some of it's eratic form this season by clinching a 2nd spot in the last race of the day after not finishing any of the previous day's races.

So the last day was delicately poised. GP Covers started the day with a clear 6 point lead on Hermes and Radii. Barron and Smithers needed to finish third or better to clinch the overall Grand Prix title if, as it seemed likely, GP Covers would keep it's lead. But a the surprise package of Fat Face mixed things up from the start by winning the first two races of the day, with guest helm Richard Lovering showing a clean pair of heels to the established teams in the tricky light wind conditions. Radii ever consistent posted a 2,2 to start with, while Hermes had a shocker of 7th in the first race. GP Covers meanwhile struggled in the lighted conditions posting a 4,5. Sefico from France at last showed some of their speed from previous rounds to post a third.

Going into the last race anyone of 3 boats could win the this Grand Prix leg, with the overall title very much up for grabs and the UK Nationals only divided by one point between Hermes, the current holders, and Radii. Hermes from the start stamped their authority on proceedings and got away from everyone to post their second win of the event. Radii however kept right on their heels with a second place, but without being able to calculate the average points given to Hermes in their first race tangle with Base1, it was not clear who had won. The tension was compounded with a calculation error in the results which initially showed Hermes and Radii on equal points, with Hermes winning on countback. However the results had failed to take account of the average points accorded to Hermes, and in the end Radii came through as UK Nationals winners by a single point. Meanwhile GP Covers then just had to finish third in the race to win the European event, and the overall title. But Barron and Smithers managed to keep a tight cover on the Danish team to push them to 5th in that race dropping them to third overall and handing the European Grand Prix Series to a well deserved B&S Team.

A big thanks must go the the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy team who put on great race management to get the full quota of nine races in, in challenging wind conditions. Next stop after some class training will be the JJ Giltinan in Sydney for the top teams.

Top three results:
1st   Radii (GBR) 15pts
2nd  Hermes (GBR) 16pts
3rd   GP Covers (DEN) 17pts

Full results

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Bairsto & Bright Atlantic Rowing Challenge
14 August
On 27th November 2005 Charles Bairsto and Tom Bright will set off from La Gomera (Canary Islands) to row unassisted 3000nm across the Atlantic Ocean to Antigua (Caribbean). They are aiming to set two New World Records:

1) They will set a new World Record by becoming the youngest team (aged 22) to have ever rowed across an ocean.

2) They are aiming to set a further World Record by beating the current crossing time of 40days and 6 hours.

The boat 'Atlantic Warrior' is a high-tech rowing boat with all communication, navigational and living systems powered via solar power. Having recently been refitted the team are carrying out a sea trial this week (13-20 August 2005) launching from the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy. The team will be in and around Portland and Lyme Bay testing the new system, and rehearsing important drills.

BAE Systems is the challenge title sponsor with Rolls-Royce and the British Army as major sponsors. The team are also working hard to raise £60,000 for Hope and Homes for Children, a Salisbury based charity working to help children orphaned and abandoned by war, conflict and aids.

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Goodchild crowned World champion
11 August
Great Britain's Mark Goodchild is the winner of the International Canoe World Championships with a 10 point lead over fellow Brit John Ellis. A great days racing was had by all on the final day of the Championships with 15 knots of breeze and brilliant sunshine. The IC's/ AC's have been swapping courses each day with the International Canoes finishing up with Frank Newton in the harbour today. Three races were completed which made up for yesterdays light winds and lack of racing.

It was three Brits that took the top three places - Goodchild put in a great perfomance with five wins over the five days racing. He discarded an eighth place to finish on 14 points. Second placed John Ellis sailed consistently all week, finishing just ten points behind on 24, with Simon Allen battling it out with USA competitor Oliver Moore to finish third although both boats finished on equal points (38). The top Aussie was Hayden Virtue on 44 points giving him a 6th place finish. Other countries represented were Sweden and Germany whose top competitors finished in 7th and 13th place respectively.

The Asymetrics also made the most of the excellent conditions yesterday to complete their National Championship although positions are yet to be confirmed due to a protest hearing that is still taking place. Currently it is a close finish between British sailor Robin Wood and the USA's Anders Petersson - these results will be confirmed as soon as the protest result is known.

All in all a good week was had by all with predominantly light winds but plenty of sunshine and social events.

Results
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International & Asymmetric Canoe Championships
8 August
Having opened the regatta with a welcome reception on Saturday night, a practice race and the first official race were held in light winds on Sunday.

Monday started with zero knots in the early morning, however thanks to the famous Portland south-westerly sea breeze the wind built to a light 5-6 knots for the first race, reaching a fairly pleasant 12 knots for the second race and five races were completed (three for the AC's, two for the IC's).

The Asymmetrics and International Canoes are racing on separate courses, with Frank Newton (Sorebones) on one and Richard Stephens (Opus) on the other, alternating each day. It was the Asymmetric's turn to head out into Weymouth Bay today, with the International Canoes racing within the harbour walls.
Results
Press release
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Irish Trio win 2005 National 18 Foot Dinghy Class European Championship
31 July - 5 August
Happy Days (National 18 number 358), sailed by Colin Barry, Andrew Moynihan and Colin Galvin of Monkstown Bay SC, won the Cork Harbour Trophy for the best eight of the ten races at the National 18 Foot Dinghy Class European Championship at Britain's new Olympic Sailing Centre at Portland from Monday 1 to Friday 5 August. Their second place in the last race clinched their victory over fellow club members David O'Connell, Kevin Horan and Shane O'Connell, sailing Ball n'chain (331) by only two points, with Happy Days counting a first, three seconds, two thirds and two fourths against Ball n'chain's two firsts, three thirds and three fourths.

Three Blind Mice (372), sailed by Nick Walsh, Rob Brownlow, and Mark O'Donovan, of the Royal Cork YC, was third overall.

The 90 competitors enjoyed an excellent week's racing at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy in winds that ranged from a gentle westerly zephyr on the Monday, when only one round could be completed, to gusty fresh westerly winds on the Tuesday, when three races were held back to back, and again for the two final races on Friday. The event was organised by Tamesis Club, of Teddington, Middx., which shares the organisation of the championship on a four year rotating basis with the Royal Cork YC in Ireland , the Royal Findhorn YC in Scotland , and the Isle of Man YC.
(Report by John Dunkley)
Results
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Laser 4000 Open
16-17 July
For many of the 30 boats which turned up for round 5 of the UK series this was their first visit to the newly built academy and very impressive it is too, matched with the excellent sailing waters of Weymouth it will make an excellent host for the 2012 Olympics.

This was a weekend of two halves as the eventual outcome would have been very hard to predict on Saturday evening. Leaders at that point were Tom (self confessed legend in his own mind ) Glanfield & Kevin (crashed and burned) Barnard, counting 2,4,2 for the day. Sailing in the harbour in a 10-12 knot sea breeze and flat water everyone struggled for consistency as so many boats have competitive speed and passing lanes were very hard to find unless you got the first beat spot on. This was epitomised by Jon Rix and Nick Alp who comfortably won the first race but thereafter could do no better than 10,12. Second overall at this stage were Hugh Watson & Susanna Bickford with 7,1,3 followed by Chris Gould & Jo Morrison on 5,3,4. Not only is he class chairman Chris must also be in line for the classes' most versatile sailor having recently won the Europeans crewing for Andy PF and here being a super competitive helm. 

The class hit Weymouth town on Saturday night and the famous "Rendevous" nightclub. Reports in the morning seemed a bit sketchy as beer rather than gossip creation seems to have been the order of the day.

Sunday was just as sunny and hot as Saturday but the sea breeze was much more reluctant and after an extended postponement the fleet set off to race in a sea breeze that was expected to increase during the day but in fact gradually died away. The first race, sailed in a 6 knot breeze, featured a very tight 3 way battle at the front between Andy PF/Jon Modral, John Reynolds/Fran Howell and Watson/Bickford, eventually finishing in this order although on the line there were only a couple of yards between the three of them. This victory marked a return to form for Andy PF as despite winning the Europeans a matter of weeks ago he appeared to have to have engaged random tactics mode on Saturday when he and Jon scored 9,2,6. This race was a turning point because just as Andy regained his form so Tom Glanfield's legendary status was beginning to crumble with an 8th after a poor start. Watson/Bickford's challenge for the win came apart in race 5 as a poor start led to a 13th, this combined with a 5th for Glanfield and a virtually uncontested win for Andy PF/Modral changed the scores around completely as now Andy PF had the momentum. Also racing up the leader board were Reynolds/Howell who had been in joint 4th overnight with 10,6,1.

Going into the last race at least 4 boats could still win but again Andy PF/Jon won easily giving them a very comfortable overall win that had not looked at all likely the night before. Second overall were John Reynolds/Fran Howell who were clearly enjoying the light conditions. Scrapping over 3rd place were Watson/Bickford and Glanfield/Barnard. It was a winner takes all situation and on the last run Glanfield was a few meters ahead, but crucially he allowed Watson to come in on the starboard layline to the final mark. Unable to cross on Port Glanfield was forced to gybe away and allow Watson in to claim 3rd overall on countback. Although this was an exciting end in truth despite being first and second overnight, on Sunday neither team had looked like putting a winning performance together.

Thanks to Weymouth and Portland Sailing academy for being excellent hosts and saying nice things about the class at the prizegiving!

Next event is Isle of Sheppey on 20th, 21st August.

Results
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R.C Laser event at Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy
16 July
The RC Laser class make their first visit to the Sailing Academy at Portland.

Under a blazing sun and greeted by a light and fitfull NE breeze the RC Laser class made it's first visit to the recently opened Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy, home of the 2012 Olympic sailing event - and what a superb venue it is!

Race officer Mark Deverell got the small (in more ways than one!) fleet away to a couple of races before the prevailing wind died completely, forcing a prolonged lunchbreak and a chance to have a look around.

At around 1pm the first signs of a sea breeze started to kick in and the well fed and watered skippers came out of the shade to do battle once more. By the time racing re-commenced the breeze had built and a hasty change down to B rig was necessary, things really got going at this point and a total of 18 races were completed in near ideal conditions.

Despite some handicapped starts, John Tushingham still managed to get the lions share of wins but it was a close thing for second between Dave Offiler, John Trimmer and Liz Tushingham. Liz managed to just edge out John Trimmer after some very close finishes. Dave was becoming bewildered by the loss of his early pace, the three pints of water he found in his boat after racing could have had something to do with it! A quick overnight fix would see him ok for the following days TT event at Poole.

Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy looks to the future
6 July
Following the IOC's announcement that London will host the 2012 Olympic it is now confirmed that the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy will be the official venue for the sailing events.

Phil Gollop, Director of Operations at WPNSA, said "All of us at the Sailing Academy are absolutely thrilled at the result. Bringing the Olympic sailing events to Weymouth and Portland has been our ultimate goal for the past six years. We offer some of the best small boat sailing waters in the World, and look forward to welcoming a whole range of Nations in 2012. We hope this decision will continue to inspire people of all ages and abilities to take an interest in sailing and come and make the most of this fantastic facility."

John Tweed , Director of Development at WPNSA continued "We are absolutely delighted that the Olympic bid has been successful. We have a World Class facility here, situated at the heart of a World Heritage site and we know that we can stage a first class Olympic regatta.

Hosting the sailing events will have a lasting effect on Weymouth and Portland area and indeed on the whole of the South West. This is the culmination of many years work- we have had very strong support from local people, the media and all of the local authorities. The success of the bid owes much to the support from the community, business organisations and government at all levels."

18ft Skiff Grand Prix
26 June
Sunday dawned a much clearer day- the cloud having lifted overnight. Racing started at 11am- earlier than scheduled due to the lack of wind yesterday. For the first race, there were about 10-12 knots of breeze which slowly dropped through the afternoon to about 8 knots, with plenty of shifts keeping the mark layers busy! Even though they missed the first race, Hermes sailed a very consistent series with a 1,2,1,1 today putting them in the lead overall on 7 points. Andy Richards' Radii also had a good day, finishing only one point behind overall. For a full set of results, please click here.
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18ft Skiff Grand Prix
25 June
The Skiffs got off to a late start due to a lack of wind with the first race being put back to 1:45pm. By this time the wind had crept up to about six knots- just enough to get underway. Radii won the first race, followed by Barron and Smithers, with Base 1 coming in third. Another two boats joined the fleet for the second race by which time the wind was extremely shifty- moving 120 degrees just before the start of the second race. Unfortunately the wind died completely before the race was finished, thus the results from the second rounding were taken. Four races are scheduled for tomorrow to compensate, with an earlier start time of 11am.
Results
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Sonars take 1st and 3rd in Pursuit Race
9 June
56 different Classes of boat took part in a pursuit race today as part of the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy's official opening celebrations. Boats of all speeds and sizes were represented from the Optimist and Salcombe Yawl to the 49er and Spitfire Catamaran- all taking to the water in brilliant sunshine and a South-Westerly force 2-3. The racing was divided into junior and senior fleets with an Optimist, Topper, Mirror and Laser 4.7 amongst the contenders in the under 18 section, and all other boats including an International Moth, Finn, Phantom, 49er and Dart 18 in the senior section. We also had some last minute entries from the Sailability Classes including the Sonar, 2.4 and Martin 16.

With such a variety of handicaps, it was the Yachting World Day Boat and the Optimist that set off first, with a near 40 minute gap before the Spitfire Catamaran got underway. On a day like this though, it was impossible for the faster boats to gain much ground, so it tended to be the earlier starters that took the prizes.

The idea of the pursuit race had been that we only had one entry per Class, however in the Senior section we somehow managed to let two Sonars slip through the net! This became clear at the prize giving as they excelled themselves and managed to finish first and third respectively, either side of a Salcombe Yawl. It was thus decided that we would give an honoury fourth prize to the Merlin Rocket. In the junior section, it was the Topper that took first place, with the Optimist second and the Laser 4.7 in third. Also evident from the prize giving was that both the 4.7 and the Hobie 16 actually managed to race in the Senior section, so again an honoury fourth prize was awarded to the Hobie 16 sailors.

A big thank you to all that made the effort to join us for this event- we hope you enjoyed it!

Results
Photos from the event can be viewed/ purchased at fotoboat.com
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WPNSA Official Opening
9th June
The Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy will be officially opened on Thursday 9th June by HRH The Princess Royal, President of the Royal Yachting Association.

In recognition of the opening of the £7.85 million purpose built Sailing Academy , we will be hosting a festival of sailing involving over 100 boats, representing over 60 different sailing Classes. The race programme in Portland Harbour will include:

Pursuit Race
Honda RIB Challenge
Match Racing
Sailability Regatta
Remote-Control 1m Laser racing
A celebrity team racing event
Sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, dragon boat demonstrations from local schools

The pursuit race is open to all dinghies. However, entries are restricted to one boat per Class and must be nominated by their Class Association. If you are interested in taking part, please contact Rosie Julian on 01305 866000 or rosiejulian@wpnsa.org.uk

To download the Pursuit Race NOR, click here

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Skiff Grand Prix
14-15 May
The second round of the Skiff Series gets underway this weekend which is forecast to be a windy one- should make for a bit of a change from the light. misty conditions at the first round two weeks ago. Eight to ten Skiffs (otherwise known as the Formula One Class of dinghy sailing) are expected, hot favourites being first round winners Radii (Andy Richards, Andy Fairley, Dave Richards) and Hermes (Ed Browne, Mark Tait, Lachlan Turrance) who finished only one point behind them in second place. Six races are due to be run over the weekend- the first race kicks off at 1pm on Saturday, with an earlier start of 11am on Sunday.
For more information, please contact Rosie Julian- 01305 866000/ rosiejulian@wpnsa.org.uk
Report from first round (23-24 April)
Results from first round
18ft Skiff home page

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J24 Spring Cup
30 April- 2 May
The J24s got off to a slow start in their Spring Cup regatta, with similar conditions to last weekend preventing any racing on Saturday. This is a good warm up event for the J24's- an ideal opportunity for them to get used to the conditions in Portland Harbour and Weymouth Bay as their Nationals and Worlds will also be sailed from WPNSA later in the year. Sailors from as far afield as Yorkshire, Sussex and Cornwall made the journey to Weymouth to take part in this three day event, with plenty of local competition from Castle Cove Sailing Club (Weymouth) and Parkstone (Poole).

Racing was also postponed on the Sunday, will an 8-10 knot breeze eventually kicking in at lunch time to lift the mist and enable the first race to get underway. The first race was held in the harbour due to poor visibility with Neil Trathen of Saltash Sailing Club leading the fleet, followed closely by Mark Jardine, Duncan McCarthy and Nick Phillips. Local boats Joskin 2 (Bob Turner) and Tiger (Barry Grant) sailed well to finish 4th and 6th respectively.

The second race saw Parkstone Yacht Clubs Duncan McCarthy and Nick Phillips battling out, McCarthy crossing the finish line first. Weymouth's Bob Turner had another consistent result finishing 4th. However, a 19th and OCS in the third race put McCarthy and Phillips down the leader board to 5th and 8th.

As always it is consistency that pays off, and a 6/7/3 for Royal Yorkshire Yacht Club's Ben Williamson left him in pole position overnight on 16 points. On equal points (20) behind that are two teams from Royal Lymington- Chris McLaughlin and Mark Jardine.

Monday- finally a day without any mist! The fleet launched early to a light 8 knot breeze, in order to make up for some of the racing they'd missed out on Saturday, with the first warning signal being brought forwarf to 09:00hrs. Ben Williamson continued his form with a fifth in the fourth race, but a second place for Mark Jardine leaves him only one point behind.

Good results in the fifth race from Chris McLaughlin (5), Mark Jardine (11) and Bob Turner (2) meant that it was all still to play for going into the final race. All three boats lead the rest of the fleet on 17 points, with Ben Williamson dropping to fourth, four points behind. However, it was Mark Jardine that came out on top in the end with a second place in the sixth and final race, putting him a comfortable six points ahead of Royal Yorkshire's Ben Williamson. Chris McLaughlin (Royal Lymington) finished in third place on 31. Local boats Joskin 2 (Bob Turner) and Tiger (Barry Grant) were not far behind finishing 5th and 7th respectively.
Results
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Skiff Grand Prix
23-24 April
This weekend was the first of a series of five Skiff events being hosted at WPNSA this season. Saturday's racing, scheduled for a 1pm start, was postponed due to thick coastal fog. By 3 o'clock this had started to clear and a light breeze meant that all eight boats at least got to launch. However, before the Skiffs had even reached the leeward mark the mist came down again, and the race had to be abandoned.

Sunday dawned a little more promising with an average 6-8 knots of wind, and the first race starting on time. Ed Browne's team (Ed Browne, Mark Tait, Lachlan Turrance) Hermes, took the lead in the first race, closely followed by Radii (Andy Richards, Andy Fairley, Dave Richards) and then Omega Smeg (Steve McLean, Jocki Christophers, Adam Kard). By winning the second race Radii then moved up to become the leaders on three points, with Hermes on equal points in second place, and Base 1(Rob Dulson, Paul Constable & Alec McKinley) six points behind and chasing them in third.

The third and final race was won by Radii making them overall winners for the event. A second place for Hermes kept them one point behind on six points, with Base 1 finishing on twelve points in third. The next event in the series will be held here on the 14th and 15th of May.
Full set of Results
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Tony Blair makes Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy first port of call
5 April
After announcing the date of the General Election in London, Tony Blair left Downing Street for Portland, arriving at the Sailing Academy just before lunch time on Tuesday. Met by Academy Directors Phil & Sandra Gollop, he then proceeded to give a speech to some 70-80 local Labour supporters from the balcony of Spinnakers, WPNSA's restaurant and function room. A buffet lunch was then enjoyed by all, with the fantastic weather allowing all to appreciate the sailing areas and views across Portland Harbour and beyond. A huge media turn out made the most of their time with interviews, followed by photo opportunities with Weymouth's Sea Cadets in front of the building. Blair then rounded up his visit with a tour of the facilities. Lead by Phil Gollop (Director), Bill Ludlow (WPNSA Chairman) and John Tweed (Director of Development), he showed much interest in the Olympic venue, in particular, why the venue is so great for sailing.
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Dinghy Sailing Magazine Weekend
2-3 April
Do you want to start your season at the front of the fleet? Why not spend an intensive weekend with Dinghy Sailing Magazine's team of experts receiving one to one coaching specifically tailored to help you improve your skills?

Our Race Coaching Weekends are open to anyone who wants to improve their ability on the race course. Whether you want to learn more about tactics, brush up on techniques or discover top tuning tips, you have lots to gain from a weekend on the water with our experts. And what's more, if ten or more boats in any one class attend, we can guarantee your own coaching group.

Don't miss out!

To request an info pack, visit www.dinghysailingmagazine.co.uk

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420 Selections
26-27 March
The 420 class returned to WPNSA after a gap of eighteen months, and for the first time since the new facilities have been in action. The event was the first of three selection regattas for this year's World Championships. These are to be held in Brest in late July and there is strong competition for the two 7 boat teams (Ladies and Open). The weather was kind with light mainly easterly breezes and a plenty of sunshine. Race Officer, Adrian Stoggall, was able to hold Saturday's racing out in the bay where competitors had to contend with a difficult short sea. The course was kept in the harbour on Sunday when the wind was forecast to be more variable. There were four winners in the six races held. Tom Mallindine and James Clark sailed consistently well to finish comfortably ahead of Hannah Mills and Peggy Webster, the leading ladies in second place, and Ed Powys and Will Morgan in third. These three are strong contenders for the youth nationals in Largs after Easter and were pleased finish at the head of a very experienced fleet including international and recent youth International sailors.

On Saturday the first race in the bay was started, after a general recall, into a gentle easterly breeze. At first left looked good as the gradient wind picked up, but the windward mark was in the southeasterly sea breeze and it paid to go right. Tom Makey and James Wade came in from that side followed by Ed Powys and Will Morgan and Charlotte Lawrence and Poppy Husband.  They held their places to the finish except that Paul Brotherton and Scott Graham pulled through to third putting Lawrence and Husband back to fourth. In race 2 it paid to go right again, with gusts of sea breeze lifting those who had gone that way over the people in the middle of the beat. Mallindine and Clark enjoyed the condition taking a long lead over Nikki and Christian Birrell and Mills and Webster. Race 3 saw yet more new leaders with James and Dan Ellis edging ahead of the Birrells, Ally Martin and Ian Dobson and Mallindine and Clark. But as the fleet started the final outer loop of the course the wind died off and then came in gently from the South West. Martin and Dobson picked this up first to creep through into first place with Mallindine and Clark also squeezing out the Ellis's and the Birrells.

Sunday dawned cold and bright. Several people had a bit of rush, not having dealt with the clocks properly. The breeze in the harbour was light easterly again. And again after 1 general recall the fleet got away with it paying to go right. Sophie Weguelin and Millie Parsons led at the first mark from Mills and Webster, and Brotherton and Graham. By the end of the second beat Brotherton and Graham were in front, but not far enough  to stop themselves being rolled first by Mills and Webster and then by Weguelin and Parsons on the reach. However on the run Brotherton and Graham found a good streak of wind and by the finish had pulled ahead again for a win. Race 5 was similar to race 4. James Murdock and Ed Whitehouse had a comfortable lead from Mallindine and Clark on the first run. But a whistle and yellow flag from the judge had them doing turns dropping them to third and leaving Mallindine and Clark to win by a big margin from Weguelin and Parsons.

At this stage the wind vanished. After a short wait the real sea breeze filled in from the southwest at 9 cold knots. The race officer hurriedly set a course with a very long line. The fleet went away first time with Matt Burge and Chris Evans leading the port end of the line contingent at the first mark. But a poorly timed gybe by Burge and Evans saw Martin and Dobson and Mallindine and Clark race through and pull away to a good lead from the Ellis brothers and then Burge and Evans.

Although the wind was difficult and there were a lot  of different boats at the front of the fleet at one time or another, the overall leaders finished with consistent sets of results.

1. Tom Mallindine  James Clark  16 pnts.; 2. Hannah Mills Peggy Webster 26 pnts.; 3. Ed Powys  Will Morgan  33 pnts.; 4. Paul Brotherton Scott Graham 35 pnts.; 5. Nikki Birrell Christian Birrell  35 pnts.; 6. James Ellis  Dan Ellis 41 pnts, 7. Ally Martin Ian Dobson  43 pnts.; 8. James Goss Elliott Parsons  53 pnts.

Full list of results
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RYA National Ranker
26-27 February
The 6 Olympic Classes got off to a good start on Saturday for the RYA National Ranker event- our first event of the season. The boats were split into two fleets- one 49er and one multi-class (Finn, Tornado, Laser Radial, 2.4 & 470) both of which were underway by 12pm to a 10-12 knot north-easterly. The 49ers and 2.4s successfully completed 4 races, whilst the other Classes managed to fit 3 in. With the forecast for Sunday looking very windy, it meant that all fleets had completed a series without racing on the second day.

As promised, Sunday brought a 20 knot breeze, with gusts up to 25 knots, and with the temperature so low, it meant the wind chill was -15. Racing was therefore cancelled for the day and the winners were as follows:

49er: Ben McGrane/ Jonathan Clegg
Finn: Chris Brittle
2.4: Michael Cogwell
Laser Radial: Penny Mountford
Tornado: Hugh Styles/ Graham Vials led the Tornado fleet
470 Men: Nic Asher/ Elliot Willis
470 Women: Pippa Wilson/ Sheena Craig

For a full list of results, click here

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ABA Quarter Finals to be held at WPNSA
19 February
WPNSA will be hosting its first boxing match this weekend, the ABA Quarter Finals. 13 contestants are to compete from the Western Counties and Combined Services, each boxing four 2 minute rounds. There are 2 divisions- juniors (12-14yrs) who are competing to win a place in their quarter finals and Seniors (18 and over), the winner of which will go on to the semi-finalsm and a possible finals place at Crystal Palace next month. Local boxer, Tony White, from Portland will be taking part. Another one to watch will be last year's British Junior Champion Jamie Cox.
For further information & tickets, please contact the WPNSA office.

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'The Crack' to play at Spinnakers 'Freedom Valentines Party'
12 February
WPNSA are holding a special Valentines Party on Saturday 12th February, for which proceeds will be donated to the Friends of M.V Freedom Charity (ticket price & 50% of all bar takings). The charity runs sight seeing, fishing and deep sea fishing trips from Weymouth for the elderly, and people who suffer from a disability or have learning difficulties.

The M.V. FREEDOM was purchased by the Charity 10 years ago- she is a BLYTH 33 CATAMARAN and has had an extensive refit for the use of our clients. She has twin engines and weighs approximately 10 Tons. Skippered by Peter Targett, both him and his willing crew give their time voluntarily.

In the summer, the M.V. FREEDOM travels some 50 Miles a day. By supporting our Valentine's party you will be contributing to the extensive costs of running such a vessel- ie, insurance, fuel, life saving equipment,  fees, licences and maintenance costs incurred over the season.

The evening promises to be a great one, with an extensive hot buffet, and the fantastic local band 'The Crack' playing until the early hours. For more information please contact us on 01305 866000 or via email admin@wpnsa.org.uk
Freedom website

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Local School present Artwork to Academy
3 February
Local Portland school, Royal Manor Arts College, today brightened up the Sailing Academy walls by presenting several pieces of artwork to the centre. Artists Charlotte Hughes, James Richards, Charlotte Pell, Charlotte Ford and Charlotte Hart all designed and produced a canvas relating to the sailing theme. These have been displayed both in the main WPNSA Clubroom and along the corridors throughout the centre.

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Spinnakers Opening Night
27 January
Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy's new Spinnakers Restaurant is to now officially open to the public following a grand opening night last Thursday, at which guests included Councillors Lynne Herbert & Les Ames as well as WPNSA Olympic Medallists Sarah Ayton, Nick Dempsey, Chris Draper & Simon Hiscocks.

With a gourmet a la Carte menu and stunning views across the harbour, Spinnakers really is unique. Intimate yet spacious, with private dining rooms available, it makes a superb venue for all occasions from business lunches to birthdays. Spinnakers is also available for private hire and can cater for up to 300 people.

Opening hours:
Thursday - Saturday evenings 6pm -9:30pm
Saturday lunch 12pm - 2:30pm
Sunday Carvery 12:30pm - 3:30pm

Please contact us on 01305 866007 or via email admin@wpnsa.org.uk should you wish to make a reservation, or for any further information.

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Mick Aitken Presentation
24 January
Mick Aitken, Executive Manager for the highly successful British Olympic & Paralympic Preparation Camps for Sydney 2000, is to visit the Sailing Academy on Monday. Mick will be sharing ,first hand, his knowledge and experience of hosting an Olympic Games in a seminar backed by Sport England and the South West Regional Development Agency.

The seminar will cover how 2012 can be a catalyst for change, using Queensland and Australia as a benchmark, using the bid to develop an understanding of what can be achieved in the areas of preparation camps, a strategic approach to using major events as a key economic and social tool, and responding to the business opportunities that will flow from 2012. Much can be achieved on these fronts even if the bid is unsuccessful.

Make Britain proud - back the bid at www.london2012.com or text LONDON to 82012 NOW!

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20/12 at 2012
16 December 2004
Next Monday will be the 20th December, and thus, the 20th of the 12th- a key date for the bid which will hopefully help raise awareness of the huge benefits that the Games would bring to Britain, and thus the sailing events to Weymouth and Portland. In support of this, Weymouth's Bar 2012 will be holding an Olympic theme night this Saturday.

This special event, launched today at Bar 2012, welcomes one and all to join in the fun at the popular bar on Bond Street (particurlary those in Olympic fancy dress). With posters to sign, and Olympic cocktails to try it promises to be a fantastic evening.

For more information, please contact Bar 2012 direct- 01305 785936.

Make Britain proud - back the bid at www.london2012.com or text LONDON to 82012 NOW!

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Island artist adorns Academy walls
3 December 2004
Portland artist Vicki Clarke made her mark on the Sailing Academy today, by displaying seven of her pictures in the main function room. Vicki from Easton, gains inspiration for her abstract paintings from Portland, Weymouth and the surrounding area, the largest of which is a 40inch x 40inch canvas that took over a week to prodice.

The artwork makes a fantastic backdrop for the new Academy restaurant Spinnakers (open now for Sunday Carverys & due to open officially in the New Year). With plenty of wall space, particurlarly in the main entrance hall, it is hoped that this will encourage other local artists to come forward. The Sailing Academy would very much like to hear from any other local artists that are interested in displaying their art at the centre.

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Back The Bid & Sign the Flag
2 December 2004
A huge 10m x 6m flag started its tour of the South West today at the Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy. The flag has been kindly donated by the South West Regional Development Agency for anyone that supports the 2012 Olympic Bid to sign. Phil de Glanville was the first person to make his mark on the flag, along with Olympic Bronze Medalists Chris Draper & Simon Hiscocks. Sailing Academy staff were also amongst the first to add their signatures. The flag is currently touring Weymouth & Portland having visited Asda along with various schools and colleges since leaving the Academy. Next stop is Fortuneswell and the Methodist Church at Easton (Portland) before spending the weekend at Brewers Quay and moving on to Poole and Bournemouth on Monday. It is hoped that there will be no space left to write by the time the International Olympic Committee see the flag in the New Year. It should go some way into showing the South West's support for the 2012 Olympic Games.

Make Britain proud - back the bid at www.london2012.com or text LONDON to 82012 NOW!

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Britain's Olympic Medal Winners Race for 2012
27 November 2004
A very successful event was held on Saturday at the Sailing Academy in support of the London 2012 bid, for which ten Athens Olympians descended on Portland Harbour for a fun Aquathon event. All watersports medallists, the athletes brought with them a range of canoes, rowing boats, windsurfers and dinghies. It was notable how well they all took to each others sports- how easy an elite athlete makes it seem! Chris (Draper) and Simon (Hiscocks) 49er had several outings whilst Laura Baldwin took people out on her Laser Radial. Alison Mowbray's single scull proved pretty tricky for most, being a ridiculous 38cm wide and nearly 8m long! Campbell Walsh brought several slalom canoes along for everyone to have a go in, but the hardest thing of all was Ian Wynne's K1 flat water canoe. Several medallists had many entertaining attempts trying to keep this incredibly unstable canoe upright, let alone move forward!

Also in attendance were Weymouth Gig Rowing Club and Poole based Canford School. Weymouth's youth gig rowing team were on hand to give the athletes some tips in their 32ft, 6 man gig which proved a lot of fun, whilst Canford School kindly brought a coxed quad scull.

The planned relay proved a little ambitious in the end- whilst they were all on the water for several hours, some of the craft proved a little difficult to master! However, the competitive element was kept up in the form of an ergo relay once on the water activities were finished.

As well as the pupils from several local schools, plenty of people took advantage of the Open Day at the Sailing Academy and just came to have a look round the recently completed 2012 Venue.

The support that we had for the event has hopefully gone some way into showing how important it is to back the London 2012 Olympic Bid. It would be fantastic to host such a prestigious event in this country and with a Nation-wide MORI poll only days away, it is vital that we all register our votes now!

Click here or text LONDON to 82012.

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RS Pursuit Race
13-14 November 2004
Some 70 boats ranging from the Feva XL to the RS 800 and K6 turned out for the annual RS Pursuit Race. Saturday was more or less a perfect day for sailing- a sunny Force 3-4, with the wind dropping off to about a Force 2 on Sunday- the sun shone all day though which made up for lack of wind. Two two hour races were held (one on each day) with staggered starts according to their yardstick handicap.

James and John Date (RS 800) took first place in the first race, however, a DNF on the Sunday put them out of the picture overall. Showing that it is consistency that matters, Nick Craig (RS 400) finished in overall first place with an 8th on Saturday and a 9th on Sunday. A 400 also took second place overall- with the Littlejohn brothers Mark and Sam scoring a 13th and 11th. In third place and only a point behind was Jerry Wales (RS 700). Other than plenty of winter training booked in, this is the last event of the year for WPNSA, the next one will be the Holt RYA National Ranker in February.

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BUSA
6-7 November 2004
Light winds and sunshine set the scene this weekend for the British Universities National Team Racing Championships, with a breeze fluctuating between 6 and 10 knots. Some 160 students were competing in two fleets- a fleet of Lasers and Laser 2's on the alpha course, and a Handicap fleet on the bravo course. The handicap fleet covered everything from 420's and Fireballs to 49ers and Tornados.

Three races were completed on the first day of racing with Jim Eynon/ Chris Downham (Merlin Rocket) and Chris Catt/ Phil Kennard (RS800) battling it out for first place in the Handicap fleet. Eynon/ Downham were the eventual winners after 5 races (1 discard) on 6 points (1,1,3,1) with Catt/ Kennard close behind on 8 points (3,2,1,2).

In the Laser 2's two girls took a clear lead. Gemma Friea and Sophie Esson from Glasgow University sailed a fantastic regatta, discarding a first place to finish on 4 points after 5 races.

Nick Thompson and Andrew Brooks, both from Exeter, tied for first place on the Laser fleet on on 6 points, with another Exeter student, Charles Baille-Strong finishing 3 points behind in third. It was these 3 results that gave Exeter University overall first place in the team event (6 points). Behind them on 11 points were Bath University, Warwick finishing in third on 14 points.

Overall, a great weekend and with the social being as important as the racing it didn't seem to matter that the wind was a little on the light side!

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Final day of 9er Nationals
13 August 2004
A 14 knot, gusting 16 knot, south westerly started the day for the 2 9er fleets, which built all day- by the last race average wind speed was up to 18 with gusts touching 25 knots.

After losing the first day of racing all races were completed with the last four just squeezed in before the real big wind arrived. In the 29ers Tristen Jaques & Alain Sign were lucky to hold onto their second overall and National Championship title after wasting 2 top results by getting black flagged. David O'Conner & Scott babbage win the overall regatta and International Championship. Ed Chapman & Tom Peel had a great day in the breeze and only lost the Tristen & Alain by one point.

The 49ers were shown how to sail in a strong wind by James MacIntosh & Phil Kennard - they won every race and with it the National Championship. John Pink & Alex Hopson just couldn't quite match the heavy wind speed and handling of James & Phil and ended up second. Dave Evans & Mark Asquith just scraped a third from Ben McGrain & Jonny Clegg by .4 of a point. A great weeks sailing had by all - especially since the rest of the UK was either under water or had no wind.
Results...
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Shifty winds for 9er Nationals
12 August 2004
Both 9er fleets launched to an 11/12 knot east-south easterly, with some major wind shifts to contend with throughout the day. By the start of the first race wind speeds had increased to 14 knots, and by the the second race there was a fresh 16 knot south-south westerly, with wind speeds varying between 13-16 knots for the rest of the day. Four races were completed.

John Pink/ Alex Hopson maintain their lead in the 49er fleet on 18 points but McIntosh/ Kennard continue to close the gap behind them after another good day (1,1,3,4). Dave Evans and Mark Asquith have a bit more to catch up, they're currently 18 points behind in third.

Aussies Dave O'Connor/ Scott Babbage are also being chased for pole position in the 29ers on 17 points, with Tristan Jacques/ Alaign Sign winning 3 out of the 4 races yesterday. Ed Chapman/ Tom Peel lie 11 points behind them in 3rd.
Results...
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4 races in for the 9ers
11 August 2004
Four races were completed today to start making up for the postponement on Monday. Both fleets launched on time to a 9-10 south- south-westerly. By lunch time the wind had swung round to a 12-15 knot south-south-easterly, but was pretty shifty for the rest of the day.

John Pink/ Alex Hopson have established a clear lead in the 49er fleet with a 1,2,4,7 scoring today, leaving them on 13 points with 1 discard. James McIntosh/ Phil Kennard had a particularly impressive day with 3 first's, moving them up into 2nd place on 23 points. Battling it out with them are Dave Evans/ Mark Asquith in equal second place.

The Aussies maintain their lead in the 29er after another 4 races with a 6,3,1,5 leaving them on 13 points after 7 races. A good day for Ed Chapman/ Tom Peel (1,2,2) has moved them ahead of Tristan Jacques/ Alain Sign who are now 5 points behind in 3rd place. Sophie Jones/ Ben McVeigh have been pushed down to 4th.

Overall a pretty exiting day with hopes of catching up on more lost races from Monday tomorrow.
Results...
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9er Nationals get off to a slow start
10 August 2004
After an unsuccessful day of no racing yesterday, things were not looking much better when launching was postponed for 3 hours again today- at least yesterday's mist and rain had made way for plenty of sunshine.

The sea breeze finally kicked in at about 1 o'clock with both fleets going afloat to an 6-8 knot south-westerly breeze. Three races have now been successfully completed. A 4th was started but unfortunately the wind dropped off within minutes and it had to be abandoned.

After 3 races, the strong Australian team have taken an early lead with a 1, 1, 2, with British pair Sophie Jones/ Ben McVeigh 4 points behind, and last year's winners Tristan Jacques/ Alain Sign chasing them in third.

John Pink & Alex Hopson have taken the lead in the 49er in these light winds with a 1, 1, 4 with Dave Evans/ Mark Asquith only 2 points behind. Ant Chapman/ Dan Boatman follow in 3rd on 15 points.
Results...
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No racing for 9er Nationals
9 August 2004
Thick mist, rain and a distinct lack of wind meant no racing for the 49er and 29er fleets today. After a delay on shore for about an hour, both fleets launched, and the first race was started. However, the wind dropped off after only one upwind and downwind leg, forcing the race to be abandoned. The boats were kept afloat for 3 hours with the hope of conditions becoming more consistent and wind speeds increasing, but unfortunately this was not the case, and both fleets came ashore with not one race completed. It is hoped that it will be possible to make up for this postponement later in the week.
Results...
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International/ Asymmetric Canoe Europeans
6 August 2004
Another day dawned with glorious sunshine and 10-12 knots of breeze for the final day of the Canoe Europeans, however unlike the previous races, today was the IC Sailing Challenge Cup- a 15 mile long distance race incorporated into the main event to complete the series.

Gareth Caldwell continued his impressive form by winning the Challenge Cup, and finishing overall winner of both the International Canoe Europa Cup and the UK National Championship on 12 points. Mark Goodchild, 3rd in the long distance race, came in overall in 2nd place- again in both the Europeans and National Championship. 3rd place in the Europeans went to Colin Brown, with John Ellis in 4th, however with the overseas contenders out of the picture, these places were reversed in the UK National Championship with John Ellis taking 3rd ahead of Colin Brown.

WPSA would like to apologise to John Ellis for the mistake in these results as they were published incorrectly prior to the prize giving on Friday. We published John as coming 4th in the UK Nationals initially and he should have been placed 3rd- these results are now correct.

In the asymmetric class, Robin Wood finished in 1st place on 8 points having won all but 2 of the 10 races. Alisdair James followed in 2nd on 15 points with consistent top 3 placings throughout the regatta, with Phil Allen 12 points behind in 3rd.
Results...
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Cadet Europeans
30 July 2004
Racing was very close today with 3 races completed and results changing after each race. Only 7 points separated the top 6 finishers, and the winners finished on equal points with 2nd place.

The Czechoslovakian pair Petr Fiala/ Hynek Barkman won the event on 39 points having moved up from 5th place on the final day. They finished on equal points with the sisters Stevie & Jodie Green, who were beaten into 2nd on count-back. The Belgians Yannick Lefevre/ Morgan Good were just 3 points behind in 3rd place.

The countback rule was also used to determine 5th and 6th positions- with local pairing David/ Katrina Brewer finishing just ahead of Stephen Videlo/ James Jopling- both on 47 points.

Local sailors Kate Allum/ Amy Yeoman had a great day today, moving them up to 21st place. They fairly comprehensively won one race even after they were over the start line and had to go back to cross it again.

All in all a successful event with some very competitve racing from all Nations. Just awaiting any protest results now, and then on to the prize giving and disco.
Results...
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Cadet Europeans
29 July 2004
Sailors launched to near perfect conditions today- glorious sunshine with a light 8-10 knot south-westerly breeze.

It's still all very tight with only 6 points separating the top 6 placings. The second race is currently in full swing, and the race officer is hoping to complete a 3rd and final race before the day is out. Positions are changing all the time, and the competition is certainly not over yet.

Current leaders are Tom Makey and Jonothan Kimber on 27 points, with a 3 point lead over sisters Stevie and Jodie Green. At the moment the Belgians Yannick Lefevre/ Morgan Good are taking up 3rd place on 31 points.

Fourth, fifth & sixth positions are are all on equal points and only 1 point behind third- two British pairings and a Czechoslovakian duo- David/ Katrina Brewer, Stephen Videlo/ James Jopling and Petr Fiala/ Hynek Barkman respectively.
Results...
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Cadet Europeans
28 July 2004
The 156 strong fleet were held onshore yesterday until 11am due to dissapointing light winds. The Cadets were launched in barely 6-7 knots of breeze, and were only able to finish one race before the wind dropped away altogether.

With 5 races completed in total, not one point separates the top 3 placings. On count-back Tom Makey/ Jonothan Kimber have the advantage, with Jonothan Moss/ Sophie Dingwall in second place and the 2 sisters Josie and Stevie Green in third.

With Portland Harbour resembling a mill pond this morning, launching was delayed again. However the fleet are now on the water, with a light 4-5 knots of breeze, with any luck increasing as the day goes on.
Results...
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Final day for Moths & Cherubs
23 July 2004
The final day of racing got off to an early start this morning, in order to run an extra race following postponement yesterday. With the first race scheduled for 10am, the two fleets were in fact delayed again due to light, shifty winds.

However, within the hour the first race was underway to a consistent 11 knots and brilliant sunshine- perfect conditions for the foilers to show their speed. Foiler Rohan Veal stormed round yet again making him overall winner of the European Championship on an impressive 11 points. Both Simon Payne (Hayling Island) and Adam May (WPSA) had a good final day with a top 3 placing in all 3 races, and thus finishing 2nd and 3rd respectively. Top non-foiler was 4th placed Ian Forsdyke, only 5 points behind.

The Moth Europeans also incorporated the British National Championship with Simon Payne, Adam May and Ian Forsdyke finishing 1st, 2nd and 3rd respectively. Another WPSA member, Graham Vials, finished in 4th place.

In the 17 strong Cherub fleet, Kevin and Jo Ellway kept their lead with a 1, 2, 2 in the final 3 races of the event. Andrew and Alex Patterson finished 6 points behind them, with Patrick Cunningham & Adrian Murphy following them into third.
Results...
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Flying Foiler Moths
22 July 2004
Another good day for the 'foiler' moths as they took the top 3 placings in both races yesterday. Both fleets were launched on schedule in to a very misty Portland Harbour. The first race got underway to a moderate 13 knots of breeze, with winds dropping as the afternoon progressed. By the end of the second and final race of the day, barely 5 knots were showing.

Rohan Veal continued his impressive form with a 1st and a 3rd in the Moth fleet, leaving him on a score of 9 points- a significant 12 points ahead of his nearest rival. The foiler Moths repeated yesterday's performance and sped round the course at a considerable pace, with Australian Rohan Veal, Simon Payne (Hayling Island) and local Adam May taking the first 3 places in both races.

Ian Forsdyke remains in second place (21 points) and top non-foiler, with Simon Payne moving up to 3rd (27 points).

A fantastic day for Kevin & Jo Ellway with two first places, sent them into the lead in the Cherub fleet on a score of 10 points. This pushed overnight leaders Andrew & Alex Patterson into 2nd, although they're currently only 2 points behind. Patrick Cunningham/ Adrian Murphy remain in contention after 7 races in 3rd place.

Launching was delayed again today due to inconsistent light winds. Both fleets have now launched and are aiming to complete a further two races.
Results...
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International Moth Europeans & Cherub Nationals
21 July 2004
Light, shifty winds meant a late start for both Classes yesterday. The Cherubs and Moths were held on shore until 2pm when the wind was deemed a reasonable strength and a lot more consistent. The plan was to complete one race, assess the shifts and alter the course accordingly if necessary.

However the wind remained a stable 10-12 knots all afternoon, and with the sun out as well it made for some great racing. The 'foiler' moths were in their element in these conditions, a couple of them nearly lapping the rest of the fleet. Although it is one of the hydrofoiled Moths that is in the lead, they're certainly not dominating the fleet overall.

After 5 races the 'foiler' Rohal Veal is in the lead on 12 points, with Ian Forsdike ('non-foiler') on 17 points, and the German Sven Kloppennburg in third.

In the Cherubs, another two races has split the first few places up a bit, with Andrew & Alex Patterson maintaining their lead on 11 points. Patrick Cunningham/ Adrian Murphy have moved up to 2nd place (17 points) with Kevin & Jo Ellway dropping to third.

Two more races are scheduled for today, the fleets launched on time to a 10 knot south-westerly breeze.

Results...
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International Moth Europeans & Cherub Nationals
20 July 2004
The Moths & Cherubs got off to a fairly eventful start on Sunday. A consistent 17 knot south-westerly gusting 20 knots at times meant plenty of up-turned moths, pitch poling hydrofoils and of the 11 starters in the Cherub Class, only 2 completed the course in full.

Things were a lot calmer yesterday with an average 7 knots, reaching a maximum of 9. However, the direction was totally inconsistent with south-westerly to south-easterly shifts more or less all day. Two races were completed by both fleets.

In the Moths Ian Forsdike currently has the lead (2,2,1) followed closely by the Australian hydrofoil Moth Rohan Veal (1,1,6). Equal on 14 points is the German Sven Kloppenburg and Brit Martin Harrison. Interestingly the hydrofoils are peppered fairly evenly throughout the fleet, with the British contender Adam May in 19th place.

The first 3 places in the Cherub Class are currently on equal points- all with a score of 5- Andrew Patterson/ Alex Patterson are leaders by default with Kevin & Jo Ellway in second and Patrick Cunningham/ Adrian Murphy taking up 3rd place.

Conditions today are currently a 5 knot south-easterly with plenty of sunshine, with any luck it'll build for them all to start racing.

Results...
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RS Open
10-11 July 2004
A Force 4 and plenty of sunshine welcomed competitors on Saturday. The four RS Classes were divided into 2 fleets- the RS 600's and RS 700's on one course, and the RS 800's and the K6 on the other.

Peter Sanders lead the 14 boats in the 600 fleet with a 1st and two 2nd places, closely followed by Matt Humphreys who despite breaking his tiller extension still managed a 1, 6, 1 scoring on the first day. In the 700's, where again 14 boats were racing, Jason Belben was the clear leader with 3 straight firsts- a performance repeated by Steve Irish/ Martin Gotrel in the 800 fleet. Mark Darling and John Ironmonger lead the K6 fleet going into the second day.

Saturday night meant beers and barbeques for most competitors and a trip to the Rendez-vous nightclub in town- for some the second trip of the weekend!

For those that had had a slightly heavy night, Sunday was more forgiving with the wind dropping to 15 knots, and then 10 as the day progressed. Matt Humphreys proved unstoppable in the 600 fleet with 3 more firsts, taking into account the discard, this left him with a very impressive score of 5 overall. Peter Sanders finished close behind on 9, with Andy Heissig in 3rd.

Jason Belben scored a 2,1,3 on Sunday making him overall winner in the 700 fleet on 6 points. Andrew Peake finished 2nd on 15 points, with Jon Heissib not far behind on 18.

Steve Irish and Martin Gotrel continued their form in the 33 strong 800 fleet finishing on 6 points, although the 2 pairings James Date/ Mark Hogan and Chris Haworth/ Stuart Aston both gave them a run for their money finishing only 5 and 6 points behind respectively.

In the K6 Class, first out of the 9 boats were Mark Darling/ John Ironmonger (6 points) who lead Jonathan Calascione/ Dyers Tucker (11 points) and Peter Kirby/ Richard Barker respectively.

All in all a great weekend with some very close and competitive racing.

Results...
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Sun shines on the second day of the South Zone Championships
26-27 June 2004
This weekend's Zone Championships gave youngsters a chance to experience 2 days of high quality racing at a club level. As part of a scheme developed by the RYA, five Junior Classes (Optimists, Toppers, Mirrors, Cadets and Dragoons) competed at WPSA under the watchful eye of coaches and RYA High Performance Managers. Some 120 boats turned out to battle for an opportunity to progress through the RYA Junior Programme.

Saturday brought a fresh 18 knots of breeze to Portland Harbour with gusts up to 28 knots, and plenty of sea mist and rain with it. Racing was postponed until 2 o'clock in the afternoon, with both fleets eventually completing 2 races each.

At the end of the first day, Aaron Smith lead the ever competitive, 45 boat, Optimist fleet with Emsworth based Charlie Poyner close behind. Alex Cooper and Robert Spencer took a clear lead in the Topper Class, both claiming a 1st and a 2nd place each. In fact, no more than two points separated the top two finishers in any of the 5 Classes highlighting the competitiveness and close racing of the young sailors.

Sunday brought pretty much a perfect day for sailing with an average of 15knots of breeze, and plenty of sunshine. Optimist sailor Charlie Poyner won the first race of the day, thus clinching the overall lead from Aaron Smith who finished only a point behind.

Having taken it in turns to win races all weekend, twins Richard and Andrew Glover just beat the local pairing of Hannah Rowles/ Stephanie Wall into second place in the dragoon fleet due to a controversial 'count back' rule.

As with the first day, the final points were very close in all 5 Classes, with the sailors- some as young as nine- showing exceptional skill and potential for the future.

Other than the South Zones that were held at WPSA, five other Zones across the country also held their Zone Championships. Summing up the weekends championships RYA Junior Squads Manager Duncan Truswell said, "The championships have been an excellent platform for junior sailors to hone their racing skills and as an indicator to progress through the RYA Junior Programme. It was a great opportunity for the kids to experience some serious racing organised by the six sailing clubs who did a terrific job. It seemed that the young sailors thoroughly enjoyed their time on the water and we hope that the weekend events will encourage them to take their racing career to the next level."

Resutls...
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World Speed Sailing Record looks set to be beaten on Portland
14 June 2004
Arriving to the Sailing Academy today is project SAILROCKET, a 30ft by 30ft speed machine aiming to break the 50 knot barrier and become the World's First 50 Knot Sailing Machine. The team will be storing the boat at the Sailing Academy and running trials here for the next 4 months, with the true test being at Weymouth Speed Week in October, where the boat will be raced on a 500m course and its top speed recorded.

Project SAILROCKET has two main objectives. The first, to average a speed of 47 knots and thus achieve a new outright World record for the fastest speed under sail, and the second to raise the world record to 50 knots, and rightfully lay claim to the title of 'the worlds first 50 knot sailing machine'.

Pilot and Promotions for SAILROCKET Paul Larsden said "I grew up in Australia tearing sailing magazines apart to read about the wild boats at Weymouth Speed Week. It's a special day for me to be turning up in Weymouth with the SAILROCKET project. We would all love to bring the Outright World Speed Sailing Record back to the historical home of the sport. Don't be mistaken, there are many obstacles and it will demand alot of patience but we know that, and we are here to do it right."

Speed sailing is unique in that there are no restrictions on boat design or type of sailing craft- the design of SAILROCKET is certainly a revolutionary concept.. Although the boat is 30ft by 30ft, the speed machine only weighs 170kg. The boat has the same weight and sail area as the Olympic Class dinghy, the Tornado.

Spokesperson for Weymouth & Portland Sailing Academy, Rosie Julian said "Speed Sailing has always had a strong history in Weymouth, so it's fantastic that the SAILROCKET team will be coming to the Academy to try and break the World Speed Sailing Record. Portland Harbour is widely known as one of best places for speed sailing in the World due to its flat water, clean wind and prevailing South-Westerly breeze. We wish Paul all the best in his trials and will be supporting him all the way in his quest to set a new World Record."
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Another outstanding win for the Hunt twins
12-13 June 2004
The 8 year old twins, Declan & Jordan Hunt, claimed yet another victory in the K Class Championships this weekend. Not only did they win the final, but they won every heat of their 2 day competition. Particularly impressive is that they're the youngest pairing in the K Class (an 8-12 year age group), and only stepped into the boat for the first time last year.
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Videlo/ Jopling are National Champions
29-30 May 2004
Stephen Videlo and James Jopling became Cadet National Champions this weekend, adding to their Inland Nationals victory earlier in the season. This was a particularly important event as it was the first Indicator for the World Championships to be held in Australia this Christmas.The pair lead a fleet of 98 boats to finish on 23 points.

William Rusden/Mathew Davanzo were only just beaten into 2nd place (27 points), with the two sisters, Jodie and Stevie Green right behind them in 3rd (32 points). Tom Makey/ Jonathan Kimber narrowly missed out on a podium place (34 points), with David and Katrina Brewer finishing in 5th (36 points).

Force 3 winds were fairly constant throughout the first 8 races, with an increase to Force 4 in the 9th and final race of the series. A regatta fleet ran alongside the National Championships, with 14 boats taking part. Clear winners here were David Freeman and Richard Yeoman, who won all 9 races and finished on 7 points.
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London short-listed for the 2012 Olympic Games
18 May 2004
It has just been announced that London is one of the 5 countries short-listed to host the 2012 Games, which takes WPSA one step closer to achieving it's Olympic dream. Lord Coe is helping to promote the 2012 bid with a 2 day visit to South-West England starting today, which incorporates the Sailing Academy this evening.

Other countries to be short-listed are New York and the 3 European capitals Madrid, Moscow and Paris.
The unaminous decision was announced by the International Olympic Committee in Lausanne, Switzerland, leaving 14 months until the host city is finally decided in July 2005.

The four cities that didn't make it onto the short list were Leipzig (Gemany), Istanbul (Turkey), Havana (Cuba), and Rio de Janeiro (Brazil).
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