Merlin Rocket Allen South East Series 2023 Round 1 at Wembley Sailing Club

 Sunday 19th March 2023, was the first event in the Merlin Rocket Allen South East regional series for the modern, classic and vintage fleets. An excellent turnout of 27 boats with visitors representing Salcombe, Lymington Town, Shoreham, Brightlingsea, Staunton Harold, Stone, Weston, Broadwater together with our more local friends from Fisher's Green and Hampton.

As usual, the competitors were provided with breakfast rolls inclusive within the entry fee to be followed by three back-to-back races with refreshments being served after race two. John Gill and his team of expert helpers on the committee boat had a challenging north-westerly breeze blowing around 8 kt, which is not an ideal direction for the Welsh Harp. Notwithstanding this, the race team were able to run three close races in the light and shifty conditions.

Overall positions saw Caroline Croft and Faye Chatterton secure third place, Alex Warren and Jonty Freeman second and Tom Gillard and Rachael Gray taking first overall with three race wins.

The generous sponsorship of Allen meant there were a range of prizes outside of the main competition itself, comprising:

Youth

1st Annabel Steward crewing for her brother Harry

2nd Rebecca Bines crewing for her dad Andy

Junior

1st Darcey Smyth crewing for her dad Mark

2nd Hannah Pighills crewing for Nick Yannakoyorgos

Most consistent (10th every race): Andy and Rebecca Bines

Lowest placed to complete every race: William Anderson and Russell Hall

Most improved during the day: Harry and Annabel Steward

Century Cup 1st combined helm and crew over 100: Tom and Rob Allen

Classic Fleet: Joe Shaw and Julie Cronshaw

Vintage Fleet: Stuart Jenkins and Nicola Scadden

Thanks to Wembley Sailing Club for an excellent opener to the Allen South East Series and particularly Paul Dean and Joe Shaw, who led the enthusiastic team of club members who made the day possible.

The next event is on Sunday 7th May at Fisher's Green. There is also an overall club trophy, which Fisher's Green are currently leading in first place from Wembley, so it's game on!