A fun-filled weekend on the water for young windsurfers
Young windsurfers from different regions of England came together over the weekend 10-11 June 2023, for the 2023 British Youth Sailing (BYS) Windsurfing Regional Junior Championships. These exciting events were held simultaneously at three different venues across the country, offering the young participants an exciting weekend of coaching and competitive on-water action.
Great achievements at Glossop Sailing Club
The North and Midlands Windsurfing Regional Junior Championships 2023 was held at Glossop Sailing Club, attracting young competitors from the RYA Midlands, North East, and North West regions. With bright sunshine and ideal windy conditions, the event saw the participation of 27 windsurfers from various clubs in these regions. The morning featured a training session led by RYA BYS Regional Training Group coaches, supported also by instructors and coaches from Glossop and Burton Sailing Clubs. In the afternoon, the 3.5 fleet had seven exciting races near the shore, while the remaining participants competed in three course races organised from a committee boat.
Tim Hall, Regional Performance Manager said, “We want to express our immense gratitude to the incredible team at Glossop Sailing Club for their exceptional event hosting and attentive care towards all the young participants.”
Congratulations to the winners in their respective categories, Tian Zhang from Burton Sailing Club in the Bic Techno 6.8 Class, Adam Hoey from Kielder Water Sailing Club in the Bic Techno 7.8 Class, Hugo Balmer from Kielder Kestrels in the Windsurfer 3.5 Regatta Fleet Class, Kier Williamson from Glossop Gladiators in the Windsurfer 4.5 Class, and Jasper Malik from Manchester Watersports Club.
Having a blast at Bristol Corinthian Yacht Club
The South and South West BYS Regional Junior Windsurfing Championships, held at Axbridge Reservoir, proved to be a resounding success for windsurfers from the South West region. The event kicked off with a dedicated training day focused on improving board handling skills and starting manoeuvres. On Sunday, the weather conditions brought stronger winds, allowing for a thrilling day of racing. In the morning, the 4.5m regatta fleet engaged in 11 exciting "Master Blaster races," while the Championship fleet completed four races.
The Regatta fleet joined forces with the Championship fleet for three additional races on a windward leeward course. The Bristol Corinthian Yacht Club enhanced the event experience by extending a warm welcome to participants and providing delightful amenities such as a BBQ and camping facilities. The presence of dedicated Race Officers and parent helpers contributed significantly to the overall success of the event.
Duncan West, Regional Performance Manager conveyed his gratitude and said: “It was a wonderful weekend of windsurfing and seeing all the sailors getting out on the water enjoying themselves and working hard. For many this was their first racing event with sailors from other clubs and it was great to see them all socialising in the evening. A very big thank you to BCYC for all the hard work and making all the windsurfers and parents feel so welcome over the weekend”.
Congratulations to the Southern champions George Ebdon (Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy) triumphed in Techno 6.8 Fleet, while Josh Freeman (Dittisham Sailing Club) secured first place in Techno 7.8 Fleet. Austin Poullion (Portland Sea Cadets) emerged as the champion in Sea Cadets Fleet, and Rohan Geis (Axbridge Animals) claimed the top spot in Techno 7.8 + Fleet. Milo Griffiths (Bristol Corinthian Yacht Club) excelled in Windsurfer 3.5 Regatta Fleet, and Tristan Lo (Andrew Simpson Watersports Centre - Reading) dominated the Windsurfer 4.5 Fleet. Theodora Coulton (Bristol Corinthian Yacht Club) emerged victorious in Windsurfer 4.5 Regatta Fleet, and Caedon Faulkner-Leask (Hayling Island Sailing Club) claimed first place in Windsurfer 5.8 Fleet. Well done to all the winners for their outstanding performances!
Delightful day at Datchet Sailing Club
The East and London and South East BYS Regional Junior Windsurfing Championships where hosted by Datchet Water Sailing Club. The event was attended by 25 talented young sailors from across the regions. The weather conditions were ideal, with a gentle breeze of 5-10 knots and a full day of glorious sunshine.
The event commenced with a parent session, where the windsurfing pathway was explained and discussed. It provided valuable information for parents to understand the sport and support their young sailors. It was a good opportunity for parents to get involved and feedback to the RYA about windsurfing challenges and further opportunities within their regions.
Throughout the day, the young windsurfers showcased their skills and competed in their respective fleets. In the Bic Techno 6.8 Fleet, Harry Webb from Docklands Dugongs club emerged as the winner, while Jamie Middleburgh from Bough Beech Sailing Club claimed victory in the Bic Techno 7.8 Fleet. Alice Chudzik Rodriguez from Docklands Sailing & Watersports Centre triumphed in the Windsurfer 3.5 Regatta Fleet, and Dawson Rogers from Buzz Active secured first place in the Windsurfer 4.5 Fleet. In the Windsurfer 5.8 Fleet, Alexander Pytlewski from Docklands Sailing & Watersports Centre emerged as the winner.
Paul Wren, Regional Performance Manager, explained: “Overall, it was a fantastic day filled with thrilling races and impressive performances. The event provided a platform for young windsurfers to showcase their talents and passion for the sport, while also promoting camaraderie and friendly competition among participants. Datchet Water Sailing Club did a commendable job organising the event, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience for all involved."
Beyond competition
The Regional Junior Windsurfing Championships 2023 went beyond competition, emphasising fun and nurturing a love for the sport. The dedication of organisers, coaches, instructors, and volunteers created an outstanding experience. These championships provided a platform for young windsurfers to showcase their talents and passion, igniting enthusiasm and inspiring future generations.
For detailed race event results, visit the results webpage