Notts County Sailing Club: Showing True Grit in 2025 County Cooler

The adventures on the high seas may have stories of heroism and courage, but the 2025 County Cooler held at the Notts County Sailing Club had its own tales of valour and tenacity. The annual sailing competition, held over two days, was preceded by the tumultuous Storm Eowyn spewing gusty wrath across the county. However, the tempest couldn’t dampen everyone’s spirits. On the Saturday, the sun was shining bright, and thirty-four dinghies and seven windsurfers were bobbing along the starting line, ready for the challenge.

In attendance were the local clubs participating in the four-part Midlands series. With race officer Martin Hayhoe leading the charge, one would have found it difficult to believe the stormy turmoil from just a day ago. The events of the day included back-to-back races after a pause for lunch with congenial race conditions featuring warm sunshine and mild winds.

The severe conditions whittled the fleet, with only the boldest choosing to brave the final race. Among them were stalwarts Nigel Potter and Gerry Haninabus improving their overnight standing of 13th to finish 4th overall, and Rebecca Ogden in an Aero, who defied norms and stereotypes to claim the 1st lady position.

The windsurfing category saw Burton’s Sam Birch and Joe Faulkner on equal points, but Birch took the trophy thanks to his performance in the final race. The 2025 County Cooler was a testament to the resolute spirit of competitors, who showcased extraordinary skill and camaraderie amidst challenging conditions. As all eyes turn to the next competition, one thing remains clear: the love for sailing and the joy of competition float ever high above the stormy waters.