Selden Merlin Rocket National Championships at Whitstable - Preview
by Alex Jackson 17 May 2015 09:32 BST
22-28 August 2015
A full on stomping day 5 at the Shepherd Neame Merlin Rocket nationals 2015 © Nick Champion /
www.championmarinephotography.co.uk
Returning to the ever popular seaside town on the North Coast of Kent, Whitstable Yacht Club in conjunction with the Merlin Rocket Owners Association plan to put on a top class event for competitors, spectators and family members alike.
On the water it is expected that Stuart Bithell and Nick Craig will once again set the bench mark for others to aspire to. Other familiar faces predicted to be 'in the mix' within the 70+ boat fleet, are Roger Gilbert, Ben McGrane, Jon Gorringe, Tim Fells and Andy 'Taxi' Davis. With such a depth of talent and potentially less physically demanding sailing conditions, consistency will be key.
Under the experienced and highly capable PRO Jon Silk, the race management will be second to none with traditional Championship racing on a stretch of water renowned for being fair and unbiased; no easy gains by simply hitting the same corner.
Back on shore the town offers excellent entertainment with a bustling high street, countless eateries and bars plus further attractions from nearby Canterbury. In addition the social calendar for the week includes the obligatory beach games, fancy dress and brewery tour at Shepherd and Neame.
The class is making a proactive push to attract the younger sailors amongst us, with a generous 50% discount off the entry fee for helms 25 years of age or under.
A 50% discount for boats of sail number 3571 or older (registered prior to year 2000), is also being offered with separate prizes awarded within the category.
Combined with the ample accommodation available locally and the club bunk rooms (book early to avoid disappointment), the Merlin Championships could represent the best value for money weeks sailing in the country.
For further information please visit: www.merlinrocket.co.uk/champs/index.html
To register interest to charter/borrow a boat or crewing opportunities please email:
Early entry discount for standard entries ends 1st July.