This year the LRYSA took 18 sailors to the NSSA annual regatta, a big jump from 11 the previous year! The event was held at Carsington Water in the Peak district, and hosted by Derbyshire Youth Sailing.
The weather was brilliant, mainly sunshine and reasonable winds, though these dropped off on Wednesday causing the cancellation of the All Comers race (separate to the main event). Winds on Sunday evening however for the practice race were fairly challenging so provided a good chance for the sailors to get used to the water.
The majority of the team camped together on a campsite about 10 minutes walk from the boat park. This however was up a steep hill so gave us plenty of exercise! Food provided by the visitor centre tasted great and improved in quantity throughout the week.
I was pleased with the amount of team spirit shown throughout the week, particularly some of the older radial fleet giving tips and encouragement to members of the Rookie fleet.
Looking back on the week (having had more sleep and plenty of showers!) I feel really proud of what we as an organisation as well as what the sailors themselves have achieved.
My highlights include:
Sunday evening, watching the sailors set off for a practice. The winds were pretty strong and I heard Alasdair shouting out "wooohooo!" from accross the water as he flew along. Great start to the week.
The group sounding off brilliantly first time. Everyone learnt their numbers, used to help keep track of everyone and were great all week at letting us know where they were going.
Being the most efficient county at launching. This is largely down to the organisation on Monday which got a system going for the rest of the week and having so many willing helpers. Thanks guys.
I am continuing the 'Welly Award' from last year. At Plymouth our winner was Helen Cooper for landing all the Toppers single handed unexpectedly.
This year it goes to Brett Haywood, for sustaining injury during a team game of rounders, and still turning up towards the end of the week to watch and help out!
Thanks to sailors for their efforts, helpers for coming and giving much needed assistance and to parents for making it possible for your children to come. Particular mentions to Jeremy for working with me (!) before and during the regatta, Will for taking charge of the Rookie fleet and general help, Richard for crewing the rescue boat at last minute and help at the campsite and Colin for organising and safety cover at the event.
Looking forward to next year (a little early to start thinking about another one yet I know!)...
The NSSA annual regatta will be held at Bridlington in East Yorkshire, 27th - 31st July. The event is hosted by The Royal Yorkshire Yaught Club at Blyth Park.
Hope to see you all again soon!
Becka Sharpe
LRYSA Team Manager
