Splashaway Wayfarer Open at Upper Thames Sailing Club

The annual Splashaway trophy for Wayfarers at Upper Thames © UTSC

Hot, sunny and breezeless characterised the weekend on the Thames for the annual Splashaway trophy for Wayfarers. The event again formed part of the Wayfarer National Circuit Series sponsored by Hartley Laminates.

Three of the new Mk IV Hartley boats joined the traditional clutch of older Wayfarers but struggled against competition from Martin Collen in W88 and other local sailors who have more experience of the challenging struggle to find an elusive and ever-changing breeze. Martin again took the Splashaway Trophy for the 9th time in succession with 3 successive wins, although the third race was helmed by Martin Hunter enjoying his first sail in Wayfarer 88, Pieces of Eight. As Hunter is normally seen winning the Queen's Cup in an A Rater, the reduction in boat size took some adjusting to but skill told in the end as he steered the boat to victory. Becky Collen, Martin’s niece, crewed throughout.

Interestingly, Hunter switched to a Mk IV in the last of the 4 races and after a poor start sailed through the field to take third place behind Phil and Sam Preston and the 2 Brewers. Third place overall was the son of the donor of the Splashaway Trophy, Peter Brewer crewed by his wife Beth.

The liveliest conditions of the weekend occurred in the clubhouse on Saturday night when “Elton John” kept a full house entertained. The theme of “W’frer in the wind” proved to be a figment of most peoples imagination!

Overall Results: