Seven St Helen’s sailors (Years 8–Upper Sixth) launched in five boats from the beach at Farmoor Reservoir as part of Fleet 1 in the last schools’ regatta of the calendar year. With 36 boats in total, the competition was keen and the weather could not deter the enthusiasm of the young sailors.
The forecast had not provided the best outlook for the event with heavy rain first thing and wind speeds expected to exceed 40mph later in the day, so the plan was made to sail as many races as possible, whilst conditions held good.
With the horizon seeming clear, the first race was completed. With the second race well underway the weather suddenly deteriorated and with wind gusts increasing rapidly to +40mph the fleet was sent ashore as they crossed the finish line.
The results reflected their efforts in the race but also the increasing confidence of the squad this term.
