2014 Flying Fifteen Southern Travellers' Series

Neil Bartholomey and Emma Brown win the Classic Fleet Trophy in the 2014 Southern Travellers' Series © Laurie J

Over the four events of the series held at Llangorse, Broxbourne, South Cerney, and Middle Nene there were a total of 40 teams competing from 9 Clubs with 7 qualifiers for the overall results.

The Classic Fleet with 21 entries and 5 qualifiers had the strongest support with 2700 Neil Bartholomey and Emma Brown (Middle Nene) having a battle at the top with 2606 Bob Tait and Mick Musgrove (Broxbourne) which was decided on the last race at the final event, where 3031 Brian Turner and Jackie Burns (Broxbourne) also secured 3rd. All of the top boats sailed in at least 3 of the 4 events, giving themselves the advantage of a discard in the final results.

The Silver Fleet attracted 11 entries (2 up on last year) with 2 qualifiers, 3341 Mike Firth and Phil Tinsley (Datchet) bettering last year's winners 3374 Tony Oatley and Tim Greaves (South Cerney).

Mike Firth and Phil Tinsley win the Silver Fleet Trophy in the 2014 Southern Travellers' Series - photo © Ali Wallace

The Open Fleet had 8 entries from 4 Clubs but none of the teams qualified for the overall results.

Perhaps in contrast to reports from some of the other F15 events general rule observance and courtesy on the water was never an issue, which made for very satisfying and fair sailing.

Everyone who sailed in the Series was full of praise for the organisation, enthusiasm and hospitality shown by the Host Clubs – the evening Dinner and social afterwards at Middle Nene was once again the bench mark for future years!

Plans are already being made for next year – any suggestions or recommendations on how to improve the series and get even more travellers "hooked on" to take part in STS 2015 are always welcome.

Finally, many thanks to all those who took part this year, both on the water either in the Race Management Teams or as Competitors and on shore as essential support for the whole STS Series, without you we wouldn't have a Southern Traveller Series!

Overall Results: