The UK Nacra 15 National Championships took place on Southampton Water on the 16th/17th September, hosted by Weston SC alongside the Nacra F20 Carbon nationals and a strong handicap fleet.
Nine teams arrived at Weston SC on Saturday morning, many enjoying a leisurely start having left boats rigged in the boat park following the previous weekend's RYA Youth Squad Selection Weekend at Calshot. With forecasts looking light but the sun shining, there were hopes of an afternoon sea-breeze. The race committee attempted to get the first race under way in a light and shifty offshore wind. As the blue skies became overcast hope of a sea-breeze faded, as did the gradient northerly, and the windward mark time limit was exceeded.
Whilst held under postponement, the Nacra 15 sailors rafted their boats together, diving and swimming before the AP over A flags were eventually flown. The sailors returned to shore to enjoy an evening BBQ on the club's patio area.
Sunday began with a promising breeze blowing up Southampton Water and sailors launched into a building breeze, with 5 races scheduled.
Overall, it was Sam & Sophie who claimed their second UK Nacra 15 National Championship title, with Tom & Izzy in second and Eloise & Ollie taking a well deserved third place. Sam & Sophie, Ollie & Eloise and Finn & Ella made up the U19 podium whilst Marcus & Matthew finished first U16 team. Special mention also to Will Boalch & Eliza Pritchard who finished as first new team, separated on countback from Jeremy & Henry Landon, both teams having started Nacra 15 sailing in the past month!
Huge thanks to Weston SC and the race management team for their organisation of a great event, only losing one race from the original schedule despite some challenging conditions. It's always great to hear positive feedback about our sailors; both Race Committee members and other sailors commenting on the Nacra 15 sailor's positivity, determination and skill in some tough conditions on both days!
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