Reflections on 2025 Pursuit Racing – The Ashley Crawford Memorial Race & Delph Sailing Club's Plum Duff Pursuit Race

Stormy seas and ferocious, chilling winds in the middle of Winter would mean stay-at-home weather for most. But for the hardy sailors at Plym Yacht Club and Delph Sailing Club, it’s the perfect setting for thrilling pursuit racing. At Plym, the Ashley Crawford Memorial Pursuit Race honoured the club member who had, all those years ago, conceived the idea of a race during the Christmas period to rally local sailors. Sadly, Crawford passed on in 2025, lending a poignant touch to the maritime camaraderie exhibited at the event. A heartening turnout of 22 entries braved the wintry weather for thrilling competition. All types of watercraft, including dinghies, yachts, and wingfoilers, enthusiastically joined in the two-part pursuit race. The tricky Plymouth Sound winds posed a challenge that effectively tested sailors’ mettle. Despite the challenging conditions Joe Wellerd’s Flying Dutchman ultimately prevailed in the inaugural race. Youngster, 14-year-old Jake Brian took the overall victory with an impressive performance. Meanwhile, at the Delph Sailing Club, the ‘Plum Duff Pursuit Race’, a traditional year ender, delivered more enthralling action to close off the 2025 season. Overall, the winter pursuit races fostered a sense of unity and camaraderie among the sailors, serving as a befitting tribute to the departed Ashley Crawford and a rousing send-off to the sailing season. The competitors who braved the adverse conditions pushed their boundaries, improving their skills, and perhaps more importantly, deepening their love for the sport. As they head into 2026, they do so with an even stronger spirit of camaraderie and a renewed passion for sailing.