Mark Stubbings - Chief Executive of the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy, host sailing venue for the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games 20 December 2007 Mark Stubbings, Chief Executive of the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy, will be available for interview on press day, 11th January 2008, at the Collins Stewart London Boat Show, Excel.
About the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy: For further press information contact:
Sail Laser: Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy to exhibit at the Dinghy Sailing Show Come and visit the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy (WPNSA), host sailing venue for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, at the Dinghy Sailing Show, Crystal Palace on the 1 and 2 March 2008. The Academy provides a training and event facility for the local community and beyond. Having chosen the Academy as the home for the new Laser Sailing Centre, SailLaser offer a comprehensive range of RYA approved courses, using video tuition to ensure you get the best training possible. You can choose from Laser 'Guru' specialist training courses, corporate events and individual tuition, and can even train to become an RYA instructor yourself! The Academy site has been developed to take advantage of some of the best sailing waters in the World. The combination of clean winds, sheltered waters and weak tides in Portland Harbour and the more challenging conditions of Weymouth Bay, provides race areas to suit all classes. The purpose-built facility is an unrivalled venue for competitions and boasts excellent facilities, with logistical and management expertise to match. From 2009, the Academy will begin gearing up for the 2012 Olympics, with international test events booked in for summer 2010 and 011. As a result it is important for all dinghy classes and associations wishing to book an event at the Academy during 2009 and beyond to immediately contact Rosie Julian, Events and Marketing Manager: Tel +44 (0)1305 866 000 Mark Stubbings, Chief Executive of the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy comments; “We are very much looking forward to the Dinghy Show 2008. It will be a great opportunity to showcase the first Olympic venue to be ready in time for 2012 and tell people a little more about the courses and event facilities we offer.” Mark Stubbings, Chief Executive of the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy is available for interview during the show on the following subjects - The Academy's Olympic development - it will be the first Olympic venue to be ready in time for 2012- The Academy's community sailing programmes Please contact Helena Searcaigh at Fast Track Sailing for all interview requests. Helena.searcaigh@fastracksailing.com or 07870 565 394. Ends NOTES TO EDITORS To register your interest in booking an event at the Academy from 2009 – 2011 please contact:Rosie Julian, E vents and Marketing Manager, WPNSA rosie.julian@wpnsa.org.uk About the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy: For further press information contact:
Sail Laser: Youngsters earn vital qualifications at WPNSA Two Weymouth College students, Luke McAvoy and Joe Warley, are now nearing the end of their Entry to Employment (E2E) course at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy, where they were lucky enough to undertake work experience at the prestigious RYA Skandia Sail for Gold Regatta earlier this year. Weymouth College and the Academy are proud to be part of a nationwide initiative to tackle the number of youngsters not in employment and not in education. The E2E course, run out of the Academy, is ideal for young people with an interest in water sports, the outdoors or just sport in general, equipping them with the basic certificates they need to start a career in the marine industry. Plenty of time is set aside to develop personal and social skills and to work on numeracy and literacy levels, combined with crucial work placements with local businesses tailored to give a range of experience in this diverse industry. Joe, from Portland and Luke, from Weymouth, both 16, attended local schools before enrolling on the 18 week course. Both are now level 1 windsurfers, assistant dinghy instructors and power boat level 2 drivers. They have also been awarded essential certificates in first aid, vhf operation and navigation. In addition, they have developed stronger social skills and are well on the way to becoming excellent sports leaders. Alex Sergison, E2E Tutor comments; "The E2E course is a fantastic opportunity for those who otherwise may lack focus or direction to receive excellent training and qualifications. I love teaching it and I know for a fact that the students get a great deal out of it. The Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy is a world class sailing venue – it is fantastic that youngsters like Luke and Joe have the opportunity to learn and enjoy work experience at the future Olympic sailing venue." Luke McAvoy, E2E student says; "I have loved taking part in this course. Not only was it fun, but I have also been able to get some vital qualifications out of it." Joe Warley, adds; "This has been a great course and has offered me a fantastic opportunity for learning and future employment. It has really helped me on my way to getting my dream job in water sports." Mark Stubbings, Chief Executive of WPNSA comments; “It is fantastic that we are able to provide the facilities for these young people to help them with their personal development. It shows, once again, that the Academy is not just a centre for elite sailors but that we cater for individuals from a huge range of different backgrounds.” On completing the course a number of options are open to the students. Where possible they are helped to find work locally, ideally through an apprenticeship. Otherwise they are encouraged into further training, often on one of the college's other courses. However they are always encouraged to remain in contact with their tutors, who provide support and guidance well after the course has finished. Ends NOTES TO EDITORS About the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy: For further press information contact:
About the E2E Courses: SailLaser: Boat hire and corporate days are available as well as advanced class specific courses with the UK's best coaches and sailors. SailLaser also works closely with many local trusts and schools ensuring sailing is accessible to all. SailLaser can offer a brand new way of buying any of the high quality products in the Laser range from this fantastic waterside location. www.sail-laser.com Request to book early for Weymouth events 2009 - 2011 From 2010, the Academy will begin gearing up for the 2012 Olympics, with international test events booked in for short periods in the summer of 2010 and 2011. These are likely to be “sole occupancy” events and, as a result it is important for all dinghy, sports boat, keel boat or windsurfing classes / associations wishing to book an event at the Academy during 2009 and beyond to contact Rosie Julian, Events and Marketing Manager at WPNSA as soon as possible to avoid disappointment: The Academy site has been developed to take advantage of some of the best sailing waters in the World. The combination of clean winds, sheltered waters and weak tides in Portland Harbour and the more challenging conditions of Weymouth Bay, provides race areas to suit all classes. Ends NOTES TO EDITORS To register your interest in booking an event at the Academy from 2009 – 2011 please contact:Rosie Julian, E vents and Marketing Manager, WPNSA rosie.julian@wpnsa.org.uk About the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy: For further press information contact:
Sail Laser:
A new winter sailing club for children is being set up at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy. The initiative is coordinated through Tony Wood (OnBoard Officer/Community Sailing Coach for the Weymouth area) and Sail Laser. The new, reduced-rate club will run fortnightly throughout the winter months, every second Saturday morning at the Sail Laser centre at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy. Courses will run from 10:00–12:00 and all ages and abilities will be welcome. The cost is just £5 per session and the next course will be held on Saturday 1st December. Matt Bridge, Centre Manager at Sail Laser, comments; “We are delighted to be involved with this new winter club and are sure that it will prove to be very popular. Sail Laser runs various community sailing courses at the Academy and we are committed to helping more local youngsters get involved with sailing. Our team of highly professional, friendly, RYA trained instructors have lots of experience of working with children, ensuring that they receive the highest possible level of tuition.” But it’s not just the children who will be picking up new skills. Tony is also organising some sail and powerboat training for volunteers who would like to help out with the sessions. The training will run for two hours after each course. Tony comments; “The idea is that those who can spare some time to assist with the sailing club will be able have some fun of their own, learning new skills on the water. The use of equipment has been agreed with Sail Laser and the training will be free! So if you fancy some time out on the water helping young people, please get in contact with me. Access and affordability are often barriers to sailing, so any time that you could spare will be most appreciated as it helps to drive down the costs of the courses for the children.” Tony’s post of Community Sailing Coach is funded by Active Dorset who aim to involve as many people as possible in sailing and other sporting activities. Rosie Julian, Events and Marketing Manager at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy adds; “This is a fantastic opportunity for local youngsters to receive top level sailing tuition at the future venue of the 2012 Olympic sailing events! The children will also be able to take advantage of our great facilities here at the Academy, including the spacious changing rooms with showers. Parents can watch the action on the water from the comfort of our indoor viewing area and Spinnakers restaurant which overlooks the bay.” To book a place on the course, please contact Matt Bridge at Sail Laser: matt.bridge@sail-laser.com or 0845 337 3214 Ends NOTES TO EDITORS About the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy: For further press information contact
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Sail Laser: Golden wedding celebrations for RYA award winner The Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy was recently the venue for a party to celebrate the Golden Wedding Anniversary of Frank and Jeny Newton. Held in Spinnakers Restaurant, with fantastic views across Portland Harbour and Dorset’s Heritage Coast, the event was attended by many local people who have been involved with Frank & Jeny on race management, and also people from Silverstone in Northampton where Frank was the official Race Doctor until very recently. Also attending was Jim Saltanstall, another celebrity from the sailing world, who represented the Royal Yachting Association, and friends from Frank’s involvement with British Athletics - Frank and Jeny have traveled the world supporting numerous athletics events over the past 20 years. He has contributed hugely to the sailing world not just in Dorset, where he has worked with WPNSA and all the Yacht Clubs of Weymouth, but also throughout the UK and worldwide. The RYA paid tribute to this in 1996 by awarding him the RYA Award for Distinguished Services to Yachting - one of the institution’s highest possible accolades. Ends NOTES TO EDITORS About the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy: For further press information contact
Sail Laser: Paralympian Helena Lucas praises facilities at The Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy Paralympian Helena Lucas will be training hard at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy for the next three weeks. Helena a 2.4mR sailor, will be looking to perfect her technique on the water in the run up to the 2008 Olympics Games in Bejing. The Academy building provides world class facilities for users, including those with disabilities and exceeds the standards required by the Disability Discrimination Act. Ends NOTES TO EDITORS About the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy: For further press information contact
Sail Laser: Spinnakers – The perfect Christmas party venue If you are looking for a Christmas Party Venue with a difference, look no further than the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy’s fantastic Spinnakers Restaurant! The Academy, host venue for the 2012 Olympic Sailing Events, is set on Dorset’s stunning World Heritage Coast. Friendly staff, unbeatable views and superb catering, with a new-look menu, will ensure that your Christmas event at Spinnakers is one to remember. Corinne Gillard, Functions and Seminars Co-Coordinator at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy comments, “ Catering for 40 to 150 people with magnificent views across Portland Harbour and the Jurassic coast, we are pleased to announce our new menu for Spinnakers Restaurant. With a wide variety of fresh, seasonal produce and three courses from just £22.95 per head, we think you’ll find it the perfect venue for your Christmas function. Our menu can also be personalised and tailored. To discuss your requirements, just contact us on 01305 866 000 or email me at corinne.gillard@wpnsa.org.uk.” Ends About the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy: For further press information contact
Back to top For the second year in a row Southampton University sailors thrived in the light winds to retain the Team Trophy. Their winning combination came from Ian Dobson and Katie Restall (RS200) who reclaimed their championship title in the Handicap fleet, narrowly beating team mates Jo Brigg and Lizz Willows (RS200) into second place, while Matt Findlay and Joanne Bailey came second in the Firefly class. However Southampton were pushed all the way for the title, wins in the Laser (Nick Thompson) and Firefly (Tom Mallindine and Pete Matthews) fleets taking Exeter University within a point of the trophy. 2007 ISAF Youth Worlds silver medallists Sophie Weguelin and Sophie Ainsworth did their best to put the Devon university in the ascendancy but they were unable to break up the dominance of the RS200s at the top of the Handicap fleet and were forced to settle for fourth place resulting in team victory for Southampton. The Laser 2 Fleet saw some close racing with Pete Williams and David Kness from Surrey University keen to go one better than their second place last year. However, despite Surrey's Lead overnight, the Brunel pair of Piers Arnold and Emanuel Koechert surprised the fleet on Sunday by scoring three bullets and clinching the title. Sailors in the Handicap and Firefly fleets saw racing interrupted on Saturday afternoon after a pod of dolphins appeared in the harbour between the boats and their next mark! Students will now be turning their focus to Team Racing with the Qualifiers for the Team Racing Championships due to take place throughout the country on the 2-3 February 2008. Results in Brief: Laser Laser 2 Firefly Handicap Team - End - BUSA is the governing body of university sport, running national competitions in 49 sports from Athletics to Windsurfing, and co-ordinating the Great Britain representative teams for the World University Games and World University Championships. The BUSA Sporting programme draws on 1.4 million students with over 3500 teams engaged in BUSA competition on a typical sporting day. With over 600 leagues, it is the biggest such sporting programme in Europe. Fixtures and results from all BUSA competitions can be accessed at www.busa.org.uk . Many university participants have gone on to achieve British and International success in their chosen sport, such as Paula Radcliffe, Monty Panesar, James Cracknell, Stephanie Cook, Nasser Hussain, Kate Howey, Audley Harrison, Beth Tweddle, James Gibson and Will Greenwood. For further information please contact: Hannah Marshall, Marketing & Communications Administrator 020 7633 5092 or Hannah@busa.org.uk For more media information regarding BUSA sailing, please contact Jessica Mapplebeck, Secretary to the British Universities Sailing Association, Tel: 023 80 604 167 Mob: 07876 017 134 Fax: 023 80 604 290 Email: jessica.mapplebeck@rya.org.uk Sailing is the most successful Olympic sport in this country and Great Britain is the world's top Olympic sailing nation. The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) is the national governing body for all forms of sailing, windsurfing, and powerboat racing. BUSA is the governing body for University Sailing in the UK. It is affiliated and supported by the RYA and has British Universities Sports Association recognition for its events. BUSA A brief history: BUSA sailing was set up in the mid 1960's. The organisation was run by a small group of students from various universities. At the beginning this Committee of students ran the annual University Team Racing Championships and organized and selected the team for the bi-annual American and European tours. In 1991, when the whole University sport structure was changing, BUSA sailing remained independent from both the British University Sports Federation (BUSF) and University Athletic Union (UAU) and was provided with a full time secretary by the RYA funded by the Eric Twiname trust. Student sailing was an important development area for the RYA RYA saw student sailing as an important development area and was beginning to support it more strongly and provide coaching in various areas. The 1993 Team Racing Championships were the first for which regional qualifiers were run. With a number of Polytechnics becoming Universities the number of entries to the Championships saw huge growth., so a series of four regional qualifiers were introduced prior to the finals. During this period BUSA sailing continued to liaise with UAU and BUSF with an ever-improving relationship and by the time the two organisations merged to form the British University Sports Association , BUSA sailing was a well-recognised organisation with a long established constitution and Championship structure. Further information can be found at www.busa.org.uk -END- Atlantic Six launch ocean rowing record Six British endurance athletes expect to spend Christmas in the Atlantic Ocean – as they attempt to smash the longest-standing record in ocean rowing. The six – Simon Chalk, Guy Lavender, Ben Thackway, George Oliver, Mike Martin and Ian Couch – will formally announce details of their world record attempt on Friday (2nd November) at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy. Their epic bid will start a month later when they set off from the Canary Islands in their specially built, high-tech ocean rowing boat – the Oyster Shack Ocean Challenger. “We will announce the record attempt on Friday and give people a chance to view the boat and hear from the crew who are undertaking this all-British attempt to break the record for the fastest unsupported rowing crossing of the Atlantic,” said Guy Lavender. “On the 2nd December, the six of us will set out to smash the current World Record of 35 days which was set back in 1992 by a French team and is the most sought-after and longest standing record in ocean rowing. Over the last few months, we have been making final preparations to the revolutionary carbon fibre ocean rowing boat which has been designed and constructed by some of the finest boat builders in the country, based here in South West England. We have also assembled a team with a unique blend of skills, fitness and determination to have a real chance of success. People will be able to track our journey, support us and communicate with us via our website which we will launch next week at www.atlanticsix.com . We are rowing to raise funds for our chosen charity, WaterAid,” said Guy. During the record attempt there will be 3 men rowing at any one time and 3 trying to get some rest. The boat will be stocked with all of their provisions for the duration of the crossing because they will not be allowed the slightest help during the record attempt. “Despite the risks of rowing an ocean, we have prepared really well for this attempt; the boat carries a wide range of safety equipment and we have undergone a number of demanding training courses, so we are very happy with the safety aspects of the row,” said Guy. The purpose-built Oyster Shack Challenger was designed by Simon Chalk, a world-renowned ocean-rower and was built in Devon where it is undergoing final preparations. Mark Stubbings, Chief Executive of the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy was on hand during today's launch, commenting; “As an Olympic venue, we work very closely with Guy (Lavender, South West England Director for the 2012 Games ) to ensure that the South West maximises the potential from the Olympics in terms of economic and sustainable benefits. All of us here at the Academy are right behind the team and wish them the best of luck in their challenge!” NOTES TO EDITORS Time: 10.00 am November 2nd Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy plus opportunity to film from a Rib from 11.00am For more information contact: Guy Lavender – 07738 312715 Notes to Editors • The Atlantic Six are Simon Chalk In 1994 Simon was selected to represent BT in the BT Global Challenge Round the World Yacht Race 1996/97 - he joined the crew of Save the Children on the most infamous leg and being the first boat to round Cape Horn. In 1997 he took part in the inaugural Port St Charles, Barbados Atlantic Rowing Race with rowing partner George Rock. Their boat was called ‘Cellnet Atlantic Challenger' and they finished in 13th place in a time of 64 days, 5 hours and 11 minutes.In 2003, Simon - in his boat True Spirit - became the first British person and youngest person ever to row across the Indian Ocean after 107 days at sea Guy Lavender Guy joined the Parachute Regiment in 1988 after completing a degree in Sport Science. He left the Army as one of the youngest Lieutenant Colonels in 2006 after a distinguished career where he served on operations all over the world including; Northern Ireland, Croatia, Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan. Despite the constant demands of military service he completed two masters degrees and accrued a wealth of leadership and management experience and formal training. As the South West England Director for the 2012 Games he is now responsible for the co-ordination of all Olympic and Paralympic activities in the region. A key focus will be on the sailing events for the London Olympic and Paralympic Games to be held in Weymouth and Portland. He is an active and accomplished sportsman; a competitive runner, adventure racer and skydiver with a wealth of experience in extreme sports. Guy thrives on mental and physical challenge and has held a long-term ambition to try to cross the Atlantic as fast as possible. Ben Thackway Ben is an ultra distance runner / mountaineer/‘adventurer' born and raised in Leeds. In his youth Ben was an accomplished footballer and attended the Leeds F.A. Centre of Excellence, and represented the Airedale and Wharfedale district.He later went on to represent West Yorkshire schools and played semiprofessionally from the age of 17 to 23 for Farsley Celtic and his home town Guiseley A.F.C. Ben fulfilled one of his boyhood ambitions at Guiseley A.F.C. when he scored in one of the early rounds of the FA Cup. In 2002 he climbed Kilimanjaro in 2 days without acclimatisation. In 2006 he ran the 150 mile Marathon des Sables (the toughest footrace on earth) in the Sahara Desert, finishing in the top 10 Brits. That year he also ran a 100 miles non-stop up and over the Pennines in the inaugural Pennine Challenge, where he finished 3rd. This year he ran 50 miles along the Thames in less than 8 hours, finishing in the top 10, in an international field of ultra distance athletes. He has just returned from Alaska, having climbed Denali (Mt. McKinley), the highest mountain in North America. He was part of a team that became the only team this year; the 1st in 4 years and only the 3rd in 10 years, to successfully summit and traverse the mountain. George Oliver George will celebrate his 27th birthday – 11 December - out in the middle of the Atlantic! He is currently employed by Leadbitter Construction in Bristol, whilst studying to be a Quantity Surveyor at the University of the West of England as a part-time student. George moved to Bristol 5 years ago from London to set up his own Personal Training company after gaining a VTCT as well as other numerous diplomas and NVQ's in massage and gym instructorship. George started his adventures at the age of 16 when he was selected to go on a schools expedition to the Greater Himalayas. He was the youngest ever and below the minimum age llimit but he was bigger than some of the others! It was regarded as being the toughest of expeditions that the British Schools Exploring Society had ever done after experiencing freak weather conditions, a lack of knowledge for the area (it hadn't been mapped since the 1940s by the British Army and a lot had changed). He experienced many hardships and grew up very quickly over those 6 weeks as well as putting in some serious climbing and altitudes but it installed in him a passion for more adventures and expeditions when he was older. That time has now come. George heard about the first Atlantic Race in December 1997 and vowed to take part in the next one. Instead, he ended up in Turkey teaching sailing and waterskiing for a year. Now he feels it is time to go out and conquer the Atlantic Mike Martin Mike has spent the last five years at the University of Bath completing a BSc (Hons) in Sports Technology and an MSc in Management. With his academic years almost behind him, he wanted a new challenge to test his mind, body and spirit to the limit. A world record attempt of rowing unassisted across the Atlantic in the fastest ever time seemed ideal to fulfil his burning ambition. Mike's sporting background is in triathlon and he has competed competitively in for the last seven years.This year Mike's highlights have included becoming the National Duathlon Champion in the 20-24 age group, coming fourth in his age group at the World Duathlon Championships and second in his age group at the World Long Distance Triathlon Championships. As one would expect, the training requirements to compete in such races are considerable and a typical week involves 30 plus hours of training. In addition to Mike's sporting exploits he has greatly enjoyed working with children with social and learning difficulties over the past three summers. This work has challenged him in a different way and opened his eyes to his own strengths and weaknesses; thereby developing his mental strength which he will undoubtedly be calling on during the forthcoming adventure. Ian Couch Ian has been involved in sport all his life from school where he competed in athletics and rugby but in particular rowing where he became Captain of boats. Through university Ian became involved in the martial arts and rock climbing and then throughout his Army career. Ian's most recent achievement was completing the 145 mile non stop Grand Union Canal Run from Birmingham to London in May this year however in addition to that he has run his own martial arts club, mountain biked, kayaked, climbed, scuba dived, ran marathons, ultra events and multiday events. Ian has a high level of fitness training around 12 hours a week in a variety of disciplines. • The crew aims to challenge the longest standing ocean rowing record across the Mid Atlantic from La Gomera, Canary Islands to Antigua, Caribbean. The record, which is currently held by the French team ‘La Mondiale', has stood since 1992 at 35 days, 8 hours and 30 minutes. Many have attempted to beat it but so far all have been unsuccessful. • Built to accommodate six men ‘The Oyster Shack Ocean Challenger' is a 29ft x 6ft ocean rowing boat. Designed by Woodvale Challenge of Devon specifically for this voyage she is made from Carbon fibre and Kevlar making her the formula one of ocean rowing boats being amazingly strong while weighing in at around just 200kg. • The boat has been in design and development for over 3 years and has self righting capabilities that far exceed any other ocean rowing boat in the world today. • On board the crew will carry all of their supplies and provisions for the crossing – if they are going to break the record no outside assistance – however slight, is permitted. • The revolutionary ocean rowing boat has been sponsored by local restaurateur Chris Yandell who runs the Oyster Shack in Bigbury and Salcombe and Jack Spratts in Salcombe. Additional sponsorship has been provided by Chocolate Dog Marketing Services, RH Advertising, 2XU, Knight Frank and AB Multi Media, a Taste of Europe and Mule Bars. Sarah Ayton training at Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy Olympic Gold Medalist Sarah Ayton has chosen the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy as her UK training venue this week. Sarah is gearing up for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where she hopes to retain her Gold Medal in the Yngling Class. Sarah has been training with her coach Paul Brotherton, himself a former Olympic Sailor. Sarah comments; “In my mind, Weymouth Bay and Portland Harbour are the finest sailing areas in the UK , I like the combination of a sheltered harbour and more challenging meteorological and tidal conditions out in the bay. With the development of the new purpose built, on-shore facilities at the Academy, it's in an unbeatable place to train, what ever your level. I am looking forward to more concentrated coaching sessions at this venue . ” Paul Brotherton adds; “People tend to forget the hard work that athletes like Sarah put in with their coaches on a day to day basis away from the cameras. Training for the Olympics requires a very tough schedule so it is important that we have a decent facility to train out of. As you would expect from a world class sailing venue, the Academy has all the right elements in place to offer a superb training ground, complete with wifi access, lecture rooms, excellent catering, an on-site gym, indoor training area and spacious changing rooms with showers and secure storage. Coaches are confident they can launch coach boats easily and moore them on the Academy's pontoon, whilst road trailers are stored nearby. All important points to constructive and productive training sessions.” ENDS NOTES TO EDITORS About the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy: The Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy (WPNSA) is a world class sailing venue and host to the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. WPNSA effectively promotes the sport of sailing to all levels of competence and ability, through courses, training and events, whilst supporting and working closely with the local community. WPNSA hosts a number of high profile regattas throughout the year and boasts fantastic conference and event facilities. www.wpnsa.org.ukFor further press information contact Helena Searcaigh , Fast Track Sailing Rosie Julian, Events and Marketing Manager, WPNSA WPNSA to host British University Sailing Championships Nearly 300 young sailors will converge on the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy this weekend (3-4 November) for what looks set to be an exciting British University Sports Association Sailing Championship. The BUSA Fleet Racing Championships give students the opportunity to race against each other individually in Lasers, Laser 2's, Fireflies and a Handicap Class, as well as competing for an overall Universities' Team Trophy. The first race will be at 11:30 on Saturday with a maximum of 5 races planned over the weekend. Teams from some of the UK's leading universities, including Southampton, Exeter, Solent, Bristol, UWE, Plymouth, Sheffield, Durham and East Anglia will be competing at the Academy. Fellow students, families and onlookers will be able to watch the racing from the Academy's balcony, offering fantastic view across Portland Bay, whilst enjoying the excellent catering and bar facilities. Rosie Julian, Events and Marketing Manager at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy comments, “We are coming to the end of yet another busy and exciting year at the Academy. We've had some really memorable and very large events in 2007, with nearly 400 boats competing in the Optimist Nationals, 300 in the Laser Nationals and nearly 80 boats in the Laser SB3 European Championships. ENDS NOTES TO EDITORS About the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy: The Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy (WPNSA) is a world class sailing venue and host to the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. WPNSA effectively promotes the sport of sailing to all levels of competence and ability, through courses, training and events, whilst supporting and working closely with the local community. WPNSA hosts a number of high profile regattas throughout the year and boasts fantastic conference and event facilities. www.wpnsa.org.ukFor further press information contact Helena Searcaigh , Fast Track Sailing Rosie Julian, Events and Marketing Manager, WPNSA Laser and B14 sailors celebrate end of seasons at Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy The Laser 4000s and B14s chose the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy as the venue for their end of season Open Regatta. The Open, which took place from 27 – 28th October at the Olympic sailing venue, saw over 80 competitors engaging in what was a series of closely fought and exciting races. The event ended on a high note with 150 participants and guests enjoying their annual end of season party at the Academy, taking full benefit of the excellent catering and event facilities available. Rosie Julian , Events and Marketing Manager at the Weymouth and Portland National Academy commented; “The Academy is perfectly equipped to host events of all kinds, both on and off the water. This weekend saw some fantastic racing. It was topped off by a memorable party in our Spinnakers function room which boasts breathtaking views across Portland Harbour and beyond. This unique venue is open for throughout the winter as well as being available for private hire when not required for sailing events.” Winds averaging 25 knots and gusting well over 30 meant that racing was abandoned for both Laser 4000 and B14 fleets on Sunday. However, not all was lost as the three races completed on Saturday were enough for a series. Laser 4000 champions were Huw Powell and Kevin Barnard, with Chris Bines and Dave Gibbons taking the B14 title. ENDS NOTES TO EDITORS About the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy : The Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy (WPNSA) is a world class sailing venue and host to the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games . WPNSA effectively promotes the sport of sailing to all levels of competence and ability, through courses, training and events, whilst supporting and working closely with the local community. WPNSA hosts a number of high profile regattas throughout the year and boasts fantastic conference and event facilities. www.wpnsa.org.uk For further press information contact Helena Searcaigh , Fast Track Sailing Rosie Julian, Events and Marketing Manager, WPNSA Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy hosts RYA National Match Racing Champion Nick Cherry The Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy was selected by the Royal Yachting Association as the venue for their National Match Racing Series held as a number of round robins in Portland Harbour . Nick Cherry fought off tough competition in early flights, including sailing legend Ben Ainslie, recently announced as the 2009 America's Cup Team Origin skipper, to secure the UK National Match Racing crown, a great victory for a second year running. Young skipper Cherry puts his winning performance out of 10 other teams selected for the finals down to a strong, consistent crew who have worked hard together to improve their overall racing strategy. Nick Cherry shared his thoughts on why the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy is a leading international venue for match racing events, “the Weymouth Academy has excellent on-shore catering, wireless internet connection and vantage points to the racing on the balcony - all important aspects for prolonged periods ashore waiting for round robins. The tannoy system allows competitors to move around the venue in the confidence that they will receive clear communications as to when to go afloat, access out to the race area is very quick and the sailors are safe in the knowledge that valuables are secure at the Academy.” Nick Cherry will continue to use the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy as a key UK training venue and is looking forward to defending his national title next year. Cherry is clearly a name to watch out for on the international match racing circuit - The Weymouth Academy Team wish him the very best of luck with his continued success. ENDS NOTES TO EDITORS About the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy : The Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy (WPNSA) is a world class sailing venue and host to the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games . WPNSA effectively promotes the sport of sailing to all levels of competence and ability, through courses, training and events, whilst supporting and working closely with the local community. WPNSA hosts a number of high profile regattas throughout the year and boasts fantastic conference and event facilities. www.wpnsa.org.uk For further press information contact Helena Searcaigh , Fast Track Sailing Rosie Julian, Events and Marketing Manager, WPNSA RYA National Ranking Series winners crowned at Weymouth The RYA Olympic Classes National Ranking Series drew to a close this weekend, with both seasoned campaigners and young guns clinching victories after the final event of the three-weekend Series at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy (20-21 October). Winning this weekend by a single point over Paul Campbell-James and Mark Asquith, World Champions Stevie Morrison and Ben Rhodes also took the overall Series crown in the 49er class, while victory this weekend in the 470 class for Luke Patience and Chris Grube also handed them a second National Ranking Series title. But it was the performance of the recently-crowned Techno 293 Under 17 windsurfing world champion Ali Masters which once again caught the eye. Having only just moved on to the larger RS:X 8.5 board, the 15-year-old took a clean sweep of race wins at WPNSA this weekend, which saw him take the overall Series title by one point over more experienced racers in the class. Skandia Team GBR's world bronze medallist Nick Dempsey put in a solid performance this weekend to top the leaderboard in the RS:X 9.5 class, only to then be hit with disqualification from his last two races for failing to wear a buoyancy aid. The weekend win therefore went to Leo McCallin, who also claimed victory in the overall Series with development squad sailors Elliot Carney and Richard Hamilton enjoying their share of the spoils in second and third. Double Olympic gold medallist Ben Ainslie swept to victory this weekend in the Finn class, although didn't quite have it all his own way after initially sailing the wrong course in the opening race of the event. However, it was Giles Scott who, with a string of consistent performances across the three events, took the overall Series crown after just a year competing in the class. Edward Thorburn took the prize for top Finn Master. In the Tornado class, former 49er World Champion Chris Draper did a fine job of standing in for Leigh McMillan, competing with Will Howden for Saturday's racing as McMillan was on usher duty at a friend's wedding. But the Beijing-nominated helmsman returned for Sunday and continued where Draper left off with him and Howden taking the weekend win by a point over Andy Walsh and Ed Barney, who themselves took the overall Series crown. Tornado performance squad sailors Rob Wilson and Mark Bulkeley missed out on the podium this weekend, but had their share of the chocolates, finishing second in the overall Series standings ahead of John Gimson and Stuart Bithell. Ali Martin and Beth Carden took the weekend win in the 470 women's class, but it's world bronze medallists Christina Bassadone and Saskia Clark who take the National Ranking Series title over Hannah Mills and Katrina Hughes. The 2.4mR class missed out on the two previous Series events due to a clash with the IFDS World Disabled Championships in Rochester, USA, but they were in action for this final event this weekend. With racing open to disabled and able-bodied sailors, Skandia Team GBR's 2.4mR coach Adam May took the opportunity to race against his charges Helena Lucas and Megan Pascoe, and clinched victory with four wins from the six races – Lucas finished second with Pascoe in third. For results from the 20-21 October event, visit www.wpnsa.org.uk 2007 RYA Olympic Classes National Ranking Series: Finn 1. Giles Scott 2. Mark Andrews 3. Andrew Mills Finn Master – Edward Thorburn 49er 1. Stevie Morrison-Ben Rhodes 2. Paul Campbell-James-Mark Asquith 3. John Pink-Simon Wheeler 470 Men 1. Luke Patience-Chris Grube 2. Nic Asher-Elliot Willis 3. Nick Rogers-Joe Glanfield 470 Women 1. Christina Bassadone-Saskia Clark RS:X 9.5 1. Leo McCallin 2. Elliot Carney 3. Richard Hamilton RS:X 8.5 1. Ali Masters 2. Beth Williamson 3. Tom Eskdale Tornado 1. Andrew Walsh-Ed Barney 2. Rob Wilson-Mark Bulkeley 3. John Gimson-Stuart Bithell ENDS For rights free images for editorial use, visit Skandia Team GBR's Media Archive at http://media.skandiateamgbr.com For more information, please contact: Lindsey Bell RYA Team GBR Communications Manager T: 02380 604216 M: 07900 570530 Notes for Editors Ø The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) is the national governing body for all forms of sailing, windsurfing, and powerboat racing. Ø The RYA is recognised by all government offices as being the negotiating body for the activities it represents. It continually fights for the rights and freedoms of its 103,000 personal members, the majority of whom choose to go afloat for purely recreational non-competitive pleasure on coastal and inland waters. Ø It represents a further estimated 500,000 boat owners nationally through its 1600 affiliated clubs and boat owner associations. Ø Olympic and Youth sailing is a beneficiary of the Lottery funded World Class Programmes (WCP) and administered by the Sports Councils. The Programmes focus on performance sport with the aim of achieving sporting excellence on the world stage. Further information can be found on the UK Sport website at www.uksport.gov.uk and Sport England's website at www.sportengland.org . The Volvo RYA Champion Club Programme and Volvo RYA Keelboat Programme are supported by Volvo. Ø Further information can be found at www.rya.org.uk About Skandia Skandia UK is part of an international group founded in Sweden in 1855. The group is a leading, independent provider of long-term savings solutions. Skandia UK is a division of the Skandia Group, itself owned by Old Mutual plc. Old Mutual is an international financial services group, listed on the London Stock Exchange where it is a FTSE 100® company, making it one of the largest 100 companies listed on the London Stock Exchange. Old Mutual is headquartered in London. Being a part of Old Mutual makes Skandia a key division of the seventh largest life assurer in Europe, with a strong financial base. The combined group has a market capitalisation in excess of £9 billion*, and funds under management in excess of £222 billion**. The group has nearly 50,000 employees. *As at 14 September 2006, Source: Bloomberg Weymouth set for 2007 National Ranking Series finale The stage is set for a gripping final showdown at the RYA Olympic Classes National Ranking Series at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy this weekend (20-21 October). With several of Skandia Team GBR's young guard turning in impressive results at the first two events of this three-weekend autumn Series, the pressure will be on the experienced performers to emerge as Series winners over the next two days. The battle in the Tornado class couldn't be closer – three crews are tied on points heading into the final event this weekend, with Beijing nominees Leigh McMillan-Will Howden, their training partners Andy Walsh-Ed Barney, and Rob Wilson-Mark Bulkeley each with four points on the scoreboard and within grasp of the 2007 Series title in the catamaran class. There's also little separating the leading crews in the 470 Men's and 49er events. The 2006 World Champions Nic Asher and Elliot Willis currently have a two point margin over Athens silver medallists Nick Rogers and Joe Glanfield in the 470 class, who themselves have Luke Patience and Chris Grube just two points behind them. World Champion Stevie Morrison heads the 49er leaderboard, having finished second with Ben Rhodes at the Series opener – the Skandia Sail for Gold Regatta – and then notching up the perfect scoreline with Simon Hiscocks to win the second event (6-7 October). But Skandia Sail for Gold Regatta winners John Pink and Simon Wheeler are just two points behind, and will be hoping to get the better of their Beijing-nominated teammates, as will Paul Campbell-James and Mark Asquith who are just four points adrift of the top spot. Giles Scott is the man to beat in the Finn class, with a third place at the Skandia Sail for Gold Regatta and a first at the second Series event a fortnight ago. Mark Andrews is in second place, three points behind, while in the RS:X 9.5 windsurfing fleet, Leo McCallin has built up a bit more of a buffer. He's ahead of second-placed Richard Hamilton by six points – Athens bronze medallist Nick Dempsey was absent from the second Series event, so currently sits in fourth place. Meanwhile, Olympic Test Event winner Bryony Shaw will be looking to end the Series with an unblemished scoresheet after winning the first two events convincingly, with Christina Bassadone and Saskia Clark also looking to achieve the same feat in the 470 Women's event. The RYA Olympic Classes National Ranking Series is designed to provide opportunities for aspiring Olympians and all Olympic Classes sailors throughout the UK to race against world class performers at world class venues. ENDS For rights free images for editorial use, visit Skandia Team GBR's Media Archive at http://media.skandiateamgbr.com For more information, please contact: Lindsey Bell RYA Team GBR Communications Manager T: 02380 604216 M: 07900 570530 Notes for Editors Ø The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) is the national governing body for all forms of sailing, windsurfing, and powerboat racing. Ø The RYA is recognised by all government offices as being the negotiating body for the activities it represents. It continually fights for the rights and freedoms of its 103,000 personal members, the majority of whom choose to go afloat for purely recreational non-competitive pleasure on coastal and inland waters. Ø It represents a further estimated 500,000 boat owners nationally through its 1600 affiliated clubs and boat owner associations. Ø Olympic and Youth sailing is a beneficiary of the Lottery funded World Class Programmes (WCP) and administered by the Sports Councils. The Programmes focus on performance sport with the aim of achieving sporting excellence on the world stage. Further information can be found on the UK Sport website at www.uksport.gov.uk and Sport England's website at www.sportengland.org . The Volvo RYA Champion Club Programme and Volvo RYA Keelboat Programme are supported by Volvo. Ø Further information can be found at www.rya.org.uk Back to top The money was raised through a charity auction held earlier this year at the Royal Dorset Yacht Club during the Weymouth Regatta. A Dorset based charity (registered Charity No. 1091086), the Chesil Trust assists local young or disabled people to engage in sailing and other watersports . This is the first time that the Chesil Trust, Sail Laser and Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy have been able to provide further training to young local people who have shown promise in the, ‘Sail for £5 taster sessions', which enabled 800 young people from Dorset schools to get out on the water during the summer of 200 |