4x20 Regatta - Report

Published 19:12 on 24 Sep 2023

This week we ran our first 4x20 regatta. Why this name? It a new format we are trying out. 4x 20 minute back to back races, aimed at all ages, abilities, groups and classes, with an added social event to finish the day. Our aim is to be fun, inclusive, youthful and noisy.

After a 1:30 briefing and registration everyone went to their boats, we had every size, from an Albacore, Enterprise, Solo, Laser, Feva, Pico and Topper on the water. Our youngest helm was 7, crewed by his traumatised mother. through to 60 year olds and all in-between. I'd say well over half the entrants were entering into their first race, most learning as they went along. 2/3 were juniors and 1/3 seniors. We also had racers who were returning to racing after a 20 year gap.

Expert advice and training was offered from 3 safety boats and I'm pleased to say everyone made it around the course.

The first race was carnage in the starters hut, as we struggled to manage 24 boats some of which had no sail numbers, but by race 2 things were settling down as we started working out who was who.

By race 2 the wind picked up a little and boats moved more freely, and everyone young and old was starting to get the hang of racing.

We finished the racing with a sprint race. followed by a great spectacle as 24 boats tried to land on the foreshore at the same time. Magical. Then for the prizes, social with BBQ and music. Our house DJ "DJ Laser" supplied the beats. There was dancing and ballon popping until dark.

All in all a great success 24 boats, 32 racers all having fun together.

If you missed it we are doing all again on the 14th of October. Our aim 40 boats! Your support would be appreciated and valued. So feel free to spectate socialise or race as you choose!

Here's a few pictures of the day