On Sunday 26th June the team of sailors from Bishop Luffa had a busy day getting their RS Feva sailing dinghies from various sailing clubs around the harbour over to Itchenor. Strong winds meant an exciting sail across the harbour for some and for others the parents rallied, towing the boats around by road.
Monday's racing was windy again with four races scheduled. Race 1 saw a great start for Bishop Luffa with a 10th place for Sam Tonks (10King) and Sam Goldsmith (10Burrows) and a 14th from Alex Sydenham (9Andrewes) and Ethan Hill (9Otter). Increasing winds saw exciting sailing and lots of capsizing throughout the large fleet of 94 boats. Race 4 was abandoned as the wind became too strong and all our sailors did brilliantly in the challenging conditions.
Day two welcomed the sailors with sunshine and lighter winds and again the team sailed well. Alex and Ethan placing 18th overall, with Sam and Sam close behind in 21st. Special mention to Sophie Brookes (8King) and Isla Southward (8King) for having a great go at their first event together and to Isla who is quite new to the sport.
The students who took part in the sailing championships were Henry Long (10Otter), Sam Tonks (10King), Joseph Phillips (10Andrewes), Ethan Hill (9Otter), Alex Sydenham (9Andrewes), Sam Goldsmith (10Burrows), Sophie Brookes (8King), Charlie Mealing (8Otter), Isla Southward (8King), Jack Gardner (8Otter), Shay Timmons (8Andrewes), Benjy Gardner (7Otter), Isla Hill (7Otter), George Phillips (7Andrewes), Zac Robst (7Wilson), Iona Sherwood (7King), Ben Stewart (7Andrewes), and Olaf Storton (7Ridgeway).
Well done to all sailors involved. Mrs Williams and I were very proud to see you sailing back to Itchenor after two long windy days on the water with lots of smiles on your faces having completed seven races before then sailing back home again! 2022 Results can be viewed here.
Many thanks to all the parents for supporting your children and the effort and time spent towing boats and sorting RIBS to support our young sailors. Hope to see you there next year.
Mrs C Jones