Last Sunday, Paignton Sailing Club hosted the highly anticipated annual Christmas Cracker Pursuit Race, drawing a remarkable fleet of 44 boats to the starting line. The event is a highlight of the winter sailing calendar, renowned for its inclusive pursuit format that gives every competitor a fighting chance.
The race spans two and a half hours, with the slowest boats setting off first, followed by progressively faster boats at set intervals, ensuring a thrilling chase to the finish.
The competition began with six Toppers, a popular class of junior sailing boats, leading the charge. Soon after, a diverse array of both single-handed and double-handed boats joined the fray, reflecting the broad appeal and welcoming spirit of the event. This variety added an extra layer of excitement as sailors of all ages and abilities competed side by side.
Participants were treated to particularly favourable weather conditions. The bay was bathed in bright sunshine, creating a stunning backdrop for the race. Winds started at a steady 10 knots and gradually increased in strength as the race progressed, providing an added challenge and testing the skills of all sailors.
Thomas Semmens, sailing an ILCA 6, was the first to cross the finish line. He was closely followed by Alan Harris from Porthpean Sailing Club in his Blaze. The RS400 team of Richard Cain and Barney Dearsley, representing Starcross Yacht Club, secured third place. In fourth place was Paignton boat helmed by Paul Procter in his ILCA 7 and in fifth place was Phil Bevan from Lyme Regis.
In the junior class, Edie Philips from Stoke Gabriel Boating Association took top honours. Special mention goes to Oscar MacKearney from Paignton Sailing Club, who, at just nine years old, impressively completed his first ever pursuit race.
The Christmas Cracker Pursuit Race is part of the Sailing Southwest Winter Series — a prestigious circuit comprising nine events held at various locations throughout the south west during the winter months. The next event in the series is scheduled to take place at Castle Cove Sailing Club on 14th December.
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