Wilsonian Sailing Club was delighted to host its flagship event once again, the ever-growing Medway Regatta, welcoming 48 boats and sailors from 16 visiting clubs across the country. The event also incorporated a highly successful Vareo Open Meeting, attracting an impressive fleet of 14 boats.
Competitors travelled from clubs including Lee-on-the-Solent SC, Hayling Island Sailing Club, Chipstead SC, Stokes Bay SC, Thornbury SC, Stone SC, Calshot SC, Shoreham SC, Milton Keynes SC, Emberton Park SC, Nottingham SC, Waveney & Oulton Broad YC, Whitstable YC, Downs SC and Rickmansworth SC. The furthest traveller went to a competitor from Chew Valley Lake Sailing Club.
The club was also pleased to welcome Lauren Edwards MP, Member of Parliament for Rochester and Strood, who visited the regatta to show her support and watch the start of the racing.
Saturday's conditions tested competitors' patience, with the opening race abandoned due to a lack of wind. However, the breeze eventually filled in and Race 2 delivered competitive sailing across all fleets. After racing, sailors and supporters enjoyed an evening of entertainment by the Medway, featuring sea shanties and a complimentary meal provided by the club's generous sponsor, MTS Cleansing Services Ltd.
It was particularly pleasing to see so many former members returning to the club for the weekend — a reminder that Wilsonian Sailing Club continues to hold a special place in many sailors' hearts.
Sunday brought a very different challenge, with stronger winds providing exciting and demanding racing conditions. Competitors rose to the occasion, supported by the club's safety boat teams, who had a particularly busy afternoon. Special mention should go to the junior fleet, who successfully completed both races despite the difficult conditions.
The 14-boat Vareo fleet enjoyed a successful open meeting, completing three competitive races. Luke Fisher of Emberton Park Sailing Club emerged victorious after an excellent weekend of racing.
Following another successful regatta, planning is already under way for 2027. Organisers are considering a June date once again, with the exciting possibility of hosting the Vareo National Championships alongside the event. Details will be announced in due course at medwayregatta.co.uk
Everyone who attends the Medway Regatta comments on its friendly atmosphere, excellent racing, superb food and memorable entertainment. We look forward to welcoming sailors, friends and families back to Wilsonian Sailing Club next year.
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