Volvo Noble Marine RS200 Nationals - the final countdown!
by Sally Campbell 11 Aug 2014 10:39 BST
17-21 August 2014
All set for the Volvo Noble Marine RS200 Nationals © Richard Janulewicz /
www.fotoboat.com
With just a week to go until the Volvo Noble Marine RS200 National Championship at Hayling Island Sailing Club, a rush of entries has seen the line up approach 100 boats!
Phil Kilburn from main sponsor Noble Marine commented "we are delighted to see such a great entry for the Volvo Noble Marine RS200 National Championship, which promises the perfect combination of challenging racing and fun social scene that we've grown to expect from the RS200 fleet – good luck to all those taking part"
Those still 'on-the-fence' are urged to enter now to be included in the all-important buddy group system, where sailors from the gold, silver and bronze fleets are put into groups, whose sailing results, plus those from the buddy pub quiz, are combined for the chance to win some fabulous prizes from sponsor, Harken.
The championship starts with a coaching day and welcome briefing before a get-to-know-the-fleet speed dating social on Saturday 16th August, providing a light hearted opportunity for competitors to meet each other before the racing gets underway on Sunday 17th.
Speculation re Runners and Riders is rife, with most bets so far being placed on sailors from the 'power houses' House Burghfield, House Hayling and House Itchenor - see here for the full guide to the form.
The championship schedule includes 2 races a day from Sunday to Thursday, with first start at 13.00 to suit the tides and allow for leisurely mornings, enabling sailors to make the most of the 'awesome social programme'... Highlights this year will surely be the Jamaican themed Rum and Red Stripe party with live music from Steel Strum and the final night Championship Dinner, with an array of curries inspired by sponsors Geeta's Foods.
Many RS200 sailors will be combining the championship with a family holiday; local sailor Tom Morris has put together an 'Island guide' for them including tips on where to see seals, find the best ice cream, enjoy a beach barbecue and (heaven forbid) spend the day in case of wet weather or no wind. See the guide here.
You can follow the results for the Volvo Noble Marine RS200 National Championship at uk.rs200sailing.org