UK 505's gear up for 2013 Euopean Championships
by Adam Kenney 14 Aug 2013 12:58 BST
28 August - 1 September 2013
Racing on day 2 of the 505 Europeans 2009 during Kieler Woche © Kieler Woche /
www.segel-bilder.de
There is one thing the sailing world cannot deny about the International 505 and that is the class' unmatched international racing circuit with amazing European and World events year in, year out.
2013 is no exception. Twenty UK teams ventured to Barbados for the World Championships and soaked up 2 weeks of stunning weather and sailing. Now 10 UK teams head off to Medemblik, Netherlands to try for the title of European Champion.
Amongst them is current National Champion helm Andy Smith who fresh from dominating the UK nationals in Torbay in July and is a hot contender for the title. Sailing legend Ian Pinnell has teamed up with David Shelton to attempt to add to his World Champion status (Pinnell won the 505 Worlds with Carl Gibbon in 2008) and bid for the European title.
Visit the event website at www.505euro2013.org
That's not all folks! With teams such as Vince Horey & Christian Diebitsch, Jim Hunt & Norman Byrd, Matt & Dan Hart and Martin Hodgson & Adrian Miles, the UK contingent stand a great chance of making a real statement in Medemblik.
Back home the 505 fleet are getting ready for the second half of their UK circuit having had a small break after an intense few months of open meetings and nationals. Aug 17/18th see the 505s return to Stone SC to re-attempt an open meeting which was unfortunately canned due to extreme conditions back in June. Also upcoming open meetings at Shoreham 28/29th September and Burton 18/19th October mean there is still plenty on at home as well as internationally!
As always the UK 505 class are very busy out sailing around the world and at home. Isn't it time you bit the bullet and joined what has become, the hottest fleet in the world?