1 & 2 June 2024
The Contessa 26 Nationals, hosted by the Royal Solent Yacht Club at Yarmouth IoW, were held on 1 and 2 June 2024 in variable conditions.
Over the 2 days 8 boats took part in 5 closely contested races in the Western Solent between Yarmouth and Lymington.
On the first day Whisper skippered by Graeme Bowen took pole position in all 3 races. Graeme said that “with a high cut jenny (cutter style) she was comfortable in Saturday’s breezy conditions when others were having to reef or explore the delights of the Island on shore”. Line honours were shared with Applejack (Chris Dickson), Vivanaut (Piers Thomas and son Bertie (6)) and Alboran (Bob Lombardelli).
Sunday’s benign conditions saw a reversal of fortunes when boats with fuller cut sails returned to the water and romped away upwind in the lighter air. Alboran had dropped out of the running with engine failure, unable to reach the start line, but Grayling (Robert & Judy McConnell sailing two handed) and Spindrift (Kate Creswell) had joined the fleet; Grayling taking firsts in both races, and Spindrift a third in one.
However, this was not enough to change the outcome, and overall Whisper took the series, with Applejack and Vivanaut running up.
Congratulations to all the competitors and special thanks to Fiona Rogers, sponsors Jeremy Rogers Ltd and all the officers and staff at the Royal Solent.
Next year the Nationals will take place on 17 and 18 May 2025, again at the RSYC at Yarmouth.