Craftinsure Contender Nationals at Highcliffe Sailing Club - Preview
by Ed Presley 22 Aug 2013 08:43 BST
30 August - 2 September 2013
Action from the Contender nationals 2012 at Torquay ©
www.borderphotos2010.com
The British Contender Association National Championships at Highcliffe sponsored by CraftInsure are nearly upon us. Commencing Friday the 30th August and running for 4 days with 2 races each day.
This year looks like it going to be well attended event at one of the Contender favourite venues. The fleet this year are almost bored of mentioning how glorious the worlds at Como were so this comes as a blessed distraction!
The Runners
Big Boys
If the wind blows hero of the Como Worlds Si Mussell will be looking to use his form to take the title as he has already practically beaten every Contender sailor in the world, but in these condition he won't have it all his own way as Northern champion Ben Holden has been on an upward curve all year.
Tactical Nouse
With no guarantee of wind the consistent performance of Stuart Jones can't be ignored especially as he has been almost untouchable in all opens this year. Another who makes the best of any condition is Graham Scott, by Grahams high standards Como was disappointing so he will motivated to return to his rightful place at the top of the charts.
Returning Heroes
After a 3 years absence former National champion Gary Langdown is back, and good in all conditions means he will be in the hunt. Will sailing on his own turf make up for the rustiness? Making the long journey south is now rare for Tim Holden but be in no doubt he will be competitive, especially in breeze. We will be blessed by the warm glow of having Nick 'Judas' Grace take a break from looking good in Musto's to show us that he hasn't forgotten that he is top Contenderer.
Dark Horses
There are many other names that could take wins, Martin Frary, Roger White, Mike Murley and Chris Boshier have all shown form this year. There is also the Dutch contingent who are going to compete and as yet are an unknown quantity.
Entries will be taken on the first day of the event and will include socials and meals for each of the nights. If required, a 4-day car parking pass can be purchased at registration. NORs and Sis can found on the club site, www.highcliffesailing.co.uk/cgi-bin/hsc.cgi/connat13.html#notice
For any further information contact
Good sailing and see you there!