Endeavour 2017: Prediction thread

There's no strict entry criteria. It's an invitational event. I think Ben, either as 2016 Champion, or Nacra World Champion deserved his invite. Clearly RCYC want to make it as prestigious event as possible, and to do that they invite the best sailors. 

Edited by mozzy - 16 Oct 17 at 9:27am

I think the type of boat played more of a role in weighting that competition to full time sailors, it's not the easiest of craft to sail as I found out to my dampness not long ago.
But as to the Pro/Amateur thing that has always been a tough one, even back in the day when the RYA made you channel your sponsorship through them in order to launder it to maintain an illusion of amateurism, the deck was stacked in favour of trustafarian kids who were afforded all the time and resources they wanted.
Life aint fair, but, sailing is the one thing I've enjoyed where money doesn't necessarily buy you the result, it can put you on the start line, give you good kit, but as we all know, that's no guarantee. There are very few sports I can think of where potentially the leading world exponent gets to line up against a rank beginner. Not that, that is what's going on at the Endeavour, but as a pinnacle to someones season of achievements I can't think of a better showcase. (Other than making them all do it in their own boats on handicap to further illustrate the iniquities we have to deal with ;-) )

I hope that guy and his crew are feeling duly proud, even though they jammed it due to their weight and the weather

Edited by iGRF - 16 Oct 17 at 10:25am

Ben (and Toby) are clearly exceptional sailors and I think it is fantastic that even though sailing is presumably Ben's full time job he is happy to enter an amateur race. It gives the impression of someone who loves their job! To be at the top of the game in boats as diverse as the Nacra 17 and RS200 is remarkable. It does seem slightly odd that you don't have to use your regular crew though, or even one form within the class. I appreciate the argument that it allows them to enter a team of fighting weight, but it's a slap in the face for the nationals winning crew.

Actually what this shows is that the choice of boat, both for the Endeavour and for the Olympics, is a side show. Cream will rise.

Edited by mozzy - 18 Oct 17 at 1:24pm

I remember when the Olympic squad entered the Southport 24 hour. Stuart Blithel et al. They were incredible. I never saw a gp sailed like that and they beat one of the top gp clubs (Bolton?) By 2 laps?