Just add water - Brent Regatta celebrates refilled Welsh Harp
Photo - A moment of sunshine, the regatta in the background. Junior Instructor Nico, Social Secretary Vivien, Mayor of Brent Tariq Dar, Juniors Alex & Zach. Credit Anita Whittaker WHSC
Liz Guest, Commodore at WHSC, takes up the story:
The sailing
Over 50 sailors took to the water on Saturday 15 June in extremely challenging high wind conditions. Those from the home club were joined by others from the Harp as well as some from the clubs who had generously offered a temporary home to WHSC sailors during the closure - Fishers Green Sailing Club, Broadwater Sailing Club (BSC) & King George Sailing Club. A strong sense of community has developed with these clubs and it is hoped that the foundations for long standing relationships have been laid.
Seven intrepid Juniors, Fergus, Zach, Alexander, Julian, Albert & Hansel also bravely took to the water. The safety boats were kept busy with capsizes as gust upon gust came through.
The winners of the 90 minutes pursuit race were Keith Street & Liz Guest (GP14) of WHSC with visitor Andy Cooney (Aero 5) of BSC second and Roger Wilson (ILCA 7) of WHSC coming third.
Photo - Adeel Khan & Roger Jeffs, credit Joy Walter WHSC
From sailing to social
Over 100 attended the social event after sailing, where there was a real sense of celebration and long standing friends were united after a long period apart. The Mayor of Brent, Tariq Dar, attended to present the prizes and made a very special day feel extra special.
All regular sailing, windsurfing and paddling activities have now resumed at the five WHSA clubs based at The Harp.
"We are delighted to be back on the water and to see such a fantastic turnout at the Brent Regatta," said event organiser and WHSC Rear Commodore, Steve Cooper. "It marks the start of our activities, and we look forward to welcoming both seasoned sailors and newcomers to the Harp."
The maintenance programme
The seven months maintenance programme undertaken by Canal and River Trust (CRT) was very involved, complicated by the condition of the reservoir and the stringent regulations and requirements of the many interested bodies. As well as improving the infrastructure of the dam, CRT also used the works as an opportunity to invest in the future of the Harp, making environment improvements as well as creating strong foundations for ongoing relationships with all those who have an interest including a Community Roots Programme for Brent residents.
Photo - Backdrop of Wembley Stadium, credit Joy Walter WHSC
Thanks to.....
The Welsh Harp Sailing Association extends its gratitude to all participants, the Mayor, and the community for their support in making the Brent Regatta a resounding success. We invite everyone to join us in our future events and experience the joy of sailing, windsurfing and paddling at the newly improved Welsh Harp Reservoir.
London's best kept secret
Through its five constituent clubs The Welsh Harp Sailing Association, located in North-West London, offers a range of sailing, windsurfing and canoeing activities for all ages and skill levels and RYA training courses. With a rich history and a commitment to promoting water sports, WHSA provides a welcoming environment for enthusiasts to learn, compete, and enjoy the thrill of being on the water. For more information about our activities, membership, and upcoming events, please visit our website
Selected Results:
- 1st Place: Keith Street & Liz Guest (GP14) WHSC
- 2nd Place: Andy Cooney (Aero 5) BSC
- 3rd Place: Roger Wilson (ILCA 7) WHSC
WHSC sailing class winners:
- ILCA 7 - Roger Wilson (WHSC)
- ILCA 5 - Joe Noun (WHSC)
- GP14 - Keith Street & Liz Guest (WHSC)