The Isle of Wight Young Junior Championship Series got underway with the first of its much-anticipated races on Saturday (September 7).

A total of 43 young sailors competed across six different fleets – ILCA 6, ILCA 4, Feva, Tera Pro, Tera Sport, and Tera Regatta—despite challenging weather conditions.

The day, held at Gurnard Sailing Club, began with a light easterly wind that gradually weakened and shifted south as the rain moved in, presenting tough conditions for the participants. 

Race one was marked by confusion regarding the course requirements, with only a handful of sailors managing to complete the course correctly and secure a result. 

Sailing at Gurnard on Saturday, September 7Sailing at Gurnard on Saturday, September 7 (Image: John Green)

However, the event regained momentum in race two, where close racing across all fleets made for a competitive atmosphere.

After a quick one-lap sprint in race three, the pressure was on to complete race four before the wind died completely, forcing sailors to battle against the ebbing tide.

Results

  • ILCA 6: 1st Ben Anderson, 2nd Gretel Haines, 3rd Tom Yates
  • ILCA 4: 1st Oliver Smith, 2nd Will Haines, 3rd Will Bradley
  • Feva: 1st Cass Day & Harry O’Callaghan, 2nd Hannah Yates & Fallon Day, 3rd Samuel Leather & Isla Preston
  • Tera Pro: 1st Jasper Jenkinson, 2nd Patrick De Salle, 3rd Rafe Bradley
  • Tera Sport: 1st Sean De Salle, 2nd Freddie Harrison, 3rd Jack Harrison
  • Tera Regatta: 1st William Segar, 2nd Harrison Carter, 3rd Henry Pim, 4th Mimi Pim