An Intense Clash of Seasides: The 2025 Kestrel Nationals at Stone Week Garner High Anticipation

Boat racing enthusiasts are in for a treat as Stone Sailing Club gears up to host the much-anticipated Kestrel National Championship 2025 between 4th and 8th of August as part of the renowned Stone Week. Sixteen boats have thrown their hat into the ring, with the championship looking set to be a fierce contest between nautical talents from England and Scotland. Current champions, Malcolm Worsley and Richard Harper, triumphant from their win at Royal Tay, are one team to watch. Malcolm, now paired with his daughter Danielle, are strong competitors aiming to retain the title. However, they face stiff competition from local heroes Howie Enkel and Danni Tebbutt from Maylandsea Bay who are setting their sights on the championship. Adding to the intrigue are Stewart Murdoch and Ken Scott-Brown, representing a potent Scottish contingent, ready to take on the waves and the competition. Early weather forecasts predict a strong westerly breeze, keeping the anticipation high for an enticing race. Particularly under watch are heavy weather specialists Rich and Liz Le Mare from Emsworth. On the other hand, Chris Grice from Maylandsea, a former national champion crewed by Kenny Hobbs, could be the dark horse of the competition. Adding an even more dynamic spin to the event, Chris’s wife, Karin Grice, crewed by Katherine Wilkinson in boat 408, is another formidable presence. Mark Bollard from Starcross, onboard the newly-moulded and resin fresh 1652, could be the wildcard in the competition. The thrilling race week is set to be ablaze with riveting sporting spectacle as the title hangs in the balance, awaiting the most skilled and steadfast sailor!