Chichester Yacht Club Hosts Thrilling 2000 Millenium Series with Simon and Katie Horsfield Dominating the Waters

On the 29th of June, excitement ran wild at Chichester Yacht Club. An array of sixteen yachts sought to master the waves in the 2000 Millenium Series, an open event sponsored by West Country Boat Repairs. With brilliant sunshine, a rising breeze, and significantly less weed than last year, the stage was set for a day of remarkable sailing.

The first race took place with a promisingly shifty force 3/4 breeze and a rising tide. It was clear from the get-go that Simon and Katie Horsfield were going to be a force to be reckoned with. Excelling with their swift start, the Horsfields quickly took the lead, delivering a sailing masterclass throughout the day. Their first place position went uncontested over all three races of the event. Close behind were Rob and Gemma Burridge, securing a respectable second place followed by Jonathan and Louisa Ching in third.

The momentum of the event built as the day progressed. The second race saw a general recall and a black flag restart as the wind force escalated to 4. Struggling to adapt, the coastal teams sighed in relief as shifts dwindled. Though, this was a bitter pill to swallow for the landlocked sailors who thrive in the craft of negotiating sudden shifts. Nevertheless, at the conclusion of race two, Pete and Sophie secured second place, followed by Rob and Gemma and Jonathan and Louisa.

By race three, sailors were dealing with wind force 4/5, leading to intense competition and fatigued arms, especially with races two and three demanding five laps each. With the precious second spot up for grabs, Pete and Sophie finished the third race in second place, followed by Jonathan and Matthew. In the end, Katie and Simon Horsfield claimed the crown at the 2000 Millennium Series, with Pete and Sophie Vincent in second place and Rob and Gemma Burridge in third.

Such a delightful day of sailing once again proved that whether one is an experienced sailor or a newcomer, the thrill, camaraderie, and sheer joy of the sport are irresistible.