Sell-out Memorial Regatta Attracts Top Names to Support Asthma UK 

Olympians and World champions among cast for 2012 Steve Nicholson Memorial Regatta

A double Olympic sailing medallist and a reigning junior World champion will join some of Britain’s top club racers in raising money for Asthma UK when the annual Steve Nicholson Memorial Regatta takes place at Northampton Sailing Club on Saturday 28 January.

The regatta is one of the UK’s top inland dinghy sailing events and is held on the last Saturday in January every year in memory of Northampton SC’s Steve Nicholson, a young asthma sufferer who worked for Northampton sailmakers and chandlers, Pinnell and Bax (P&B) who sponsor the regatta every year. Steve was in his early thirties when died suddenly from an asthma attack in 2002.

A sell-out 150 sailors racing in a host of different classes will contest the handicap trophy with the line-up headed by Simon Hiscocks, winner of silver and bronze medals at the Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004 Olympics, and reigning World Topper champion and RYA West Midland Young Sailor of the Year, Matt Venables.

So popular is the event all places were filled within six days of entries opening.Steve was a delightful young man who was well known and respected in national dinghy circles.

Born and bred in Newcastle, Steve joined Pinnell and Bax as shop manager shortly after they moved to Northampton.

Ian Pinnell, a director of the company, said “Steve was a great asset to the business and was well liked by staff and customers alike. We raced together in a Mirror dinghy for a number of years and he was always great company as well as a great crew.” Steve also raced in Fireballs, 505s and Enterprise dinghies, and was actively involved in Enterprise training.

Fellow P&B director, Tom Stewart, added, “Steve made a big impact on the parts of the dinghy sailing world in which he was involved and is fondly remembered to the present time.  We still miss his friendly style and who can forget that shock of hair! Supporting this very worthwhile cause is our way of celebrating the life of a great friend and colleague."

As well as P&B, the event receives valuable support from other leading companies in the dinghy industry.The first race starts at 11am and spectators are welcome. Entry is free but there will be buckets around for visitors to make welcome donations to Asthma UK. Plus if you pick up a Gift Aid form, the tax man will add 28p to every pound you donate.

Unfortunately there will be no parking for spectators on site as all available space will be needed for competitors, boats, trailers, and officials. Plenty of parking is available at the nearby Brixworth Country Park just a short walk from the Club entrance.

Rob Jackson, Commodore of Northampton SC, said, “Steve was a popular club member who was always ready to help sailors develop their skills whether they were new to the sport or experienced racers looking for that extra competitive edge. All of us at the club are pleased to host this event in his memory and hope our efforts will help reduce the threat of impact of this terrible affliction on so many people.”

Elspeth Dando, Community Fundraising Manager, Asthma UK, said “Sadly three people a day still die from asthma in the UK, which is why we’re so grateful for the valuable and continuing support from Northampton SC with the Steve Nicholson Memorial Regatta. This helps us to continue to fund research and offer support to people affected by asthma, because 90% of asthma deaths are preventable.”

For more information visit www.northamptonsailingclub.org