UYC Open Winter Series 2021

 There was a blue sky welcome for competitors at the last Sunday of Ullswater Yacht Club's Open Winter Series on Sunday, December 19.

But although the view over the lake was beautiful, the lack of wind meant no racing and the series rounded off with a prize-giving presentation. A total of 22 boats entered the series which started on Sunday, November 7. The adult racers, in a range of different boats were joined by an enthusiastic Youth & Junior fleet of 11 Teras, Toppers and a Laser Radial, all sailing three back-to-back races on Sundays.

Of the seven Sundays planned, racing was possible on four with the others cancelled because of adverse weather conditions. Overall winners were John Reekie and his team from Bassenthwaite SC in an SB20. In second place was Mark Somerville, also of Bassenthwaite SC, in an RS100 and Bernard Clark of Ripon/Overy Staithe SC was third sailing an OK.

In the Youth & Junior fleet, with three Sundays racing, Matthew Somerville of Bassenthwaite SC in a Tera Sport swept the board, with eight firsts and a second. Olivia Dembinski of UYC in a Tera Pro was second and Laia Priestley of UYC in a Tera Sport was third.

The club was pleased to welcome the visiting sailors who enjoyed good racing with UYC members in a range of conditions and hopes they will return next year, with their sailing friends, when the Open Winter Series starts on October 30. A full sailing programme is planned by the club for 2022. Open events start with the Daffodil Regatta on April 23 & 24 and include the 60th Lord Birkett Memorial Trophy on July 2 & 3. Details on the UYC website, ullswateryachtclub.org

UYC and Peggy the Pegasus, who features on its burgee, wishes all sailors everywhere a very Merry Christmas.