East Coast Piers Race sponsored by Wildwind open to fast dinghes
by Andrew Dowley 29 Feb 2012 06:25 GMT
14-15 July 2012
The East Coast Piers Race course © Sally Hitt, The Moment Images
The 2012 East Coast Piers Race sponsored by Wildwind sees the races' 25th anniversary. The race is one of the most established long distance races in the country; since 1987 the East Coast Piers Race has attracted top continental sailors and development classes, along with the cream of big cat sailors. However, the East Coast Piers Race (48miles) isn't just for big cats - a shorter, but no less demanding course (known as The Colne Point Race - 27miles) is always available for smaller cats.
This year the East Coast Piers Race team would like to invite fast dinghy sailors along to take part in the action packed weekend. Dinghies with a PY of 917 or faster can come along and enter the Colne Point Race for the very first time.
Entries will be limited to 30 dinghies and pre-entry will be essential.
The East Coast Piers race is a two day event being held on the 14th and 15th July at Marconi Sailing Club. Free camping is available from Friday to Monday with in shore racing on Saturday and the long distance races on the Sunday.
The Marconi team have the organisation down to a fine art - with a spacious marquee, a huge grassy boat park in which to camp and park, intimate Club bar, and excellent race organisation.
The course is marked with cruiser "mother ships" flying orange flags, and quite easy for first timers. It is a challenge, but a manageable one.
You sail from the start off Osea Pier, down the Blackwater Estuary to Bradwell, across the Estuary, and then along the coast passing Clacton Pier and turning at Walton Pier. The shorter course turns at Colne Point.
Please note
Early entry is required for dinghies wishing to take part, Catamarans can still enter on the race weekend.
To compete in the East Coast Piers Race, at least one crew member must be over the age of 18. Under-16's are not permitted. Single-handers must be over 18 years of age.
The following safety equipment must also be present on the boat on the Sunday:
- One Bouyancy Aid/Life Jacket per crew member
- 10m tow line per boat
- One flare per crew member
- One paddle per boat
- One compass per boat
More information