A Spirited Weekend Race at Bembridge Sailing Club Sees Keen Competition and A Surprise Winner

The weekend of the 14th and 15th of June, 2025 was a memorable one at the Bembridge Sailing Club, marking the mid-June Keelboat race. This event saw an eager group of sailors taking advantage of bright, sunny weather despite initially stiff southwesterly winds which had even the most ardent seafarers staying shore-bound on Saturday. However, the winds softened to a more manageable strength on Sunday, paving the way for keen competition.

As the race commenced, four stalwart Redwings and two One-Design boats navigated their way to the start area. Following a brief delay, a fifth Redwing, the Musicus helmed by Rosie Sym, arrived on the scene, joining the ranks of seafarers headed for the inflatable windward mark.

However, the fortunes of sea racing can ebb and flow like the tides. Harlequin, though confidently leading, was met with a misfortune when her main halyard broke, leaving the boat to complete the final leg under jib alone. This turn of events put Toucan helmed by Colin Samuelson in the leading position. Defying odds, Harlequin, although offered a tow, continued under jib, finishing only 10 minutes behind the leader.

Meanwhile, the One-Design race had its own share of equally tense moments. John Suffield, helming No 4 single-handed, had to retire due to a mainsail malfunction. Lavinia and Charles Perry in No 8, decided to practice their starting and enjoyed a splendid afternoon of sailing a full-length course.

Despite the trials and tribulations on the water, the mid-June Keelboat Weekend captured the very essence of sailing: adventure, competition, unpredictability, and camaraderie. At the end of the day, it was Toucan, who took home the coveted Evert de Kort Cup. The weekend was proof that sailing is not about the calm sea but about steering a steady ship amidst the stormy winds. Until next time, anchors aweigh!