The British Contender Association National Travellers’ Trophy Series, a much-anticipated event, saw fourteen entries battling it out at Hythe and Saltwood Sailing Club. The first day of the event was marked by wind gusts of up to 40 mph, however, like the true sailors they are, participants turned this downtime into an opportunity for sail measurement, prep, and soaking in the charm of Hythe. Hopes revived with a promising forecast for the second day.

As predicted, the second day saw south-westerly winds of 15-30 mph, providing rather challenging conditions including large waves and intense racing. Attempting to ride these waves turned out to be an eventful venture as numerous capsizes, breakages, and retirements ensued. Among these, Rob Smith stood out as the first to back out due to a snapped stay, while others, like Richard Buttner, too, decided to retire following severe capsizes.