The Classics are coming to Hunts Sailing Club

Classic dinghies at Hunts © Nikky Evans

While some may cherish their flashy, plastic and carbon, lightweight speed machines, there are those who delight in the quiet satisfaction of bringing something old and forgotten back to life, putting it on the water and setting it sailing once again. For those with GRP, woodworking and sometimes even needlework skills this can make enjoyable sailing an affordable option, without the big financial outlay some think needed to get into our sport,

This is very much the ethos of the Classic and Vintage Racing Dinghy Association, whose many members take older boats some might consider not worth looking at, then lovingly restore them at home, in garages, sheds, workshops or even sometimes, the kitchen! The fruits of these labours can then be seen at any of the CVRDA's many rallies, held around the country throughout the year providing a showcase for the amateur restorer, with the professionals occasionally coming along to share the limelight.

The weekend of the 2nd and 3rd May sees the first of these rallies for 2015 taking place at Hunts Sailing Club in Cambridgeshire, effectively the 'Eastern arm' of the Association. This year the organisers expect the turnout to be bigger and better than ever, with strong local support plus many visitors expected to come from all over.

"This year we're expecting more variety too," said Vanessa Weedon-Jones, event organiser, "I know even more low rider moths are promising to come, providing great spectacle, but there are also two Marauders lined up, plenty of Merlins, a South African Sprog, Albacores and some Classic and Vintage International 14s. Alongside these will be Finns, Solos, National 12s, Mirrors, Graduates and more."

As usual this event shares its courses with the de May series Merlin Rockets on the Saturday and, appropriately, the SigneTs on the Sunday.

But it's not all about the racing – though the on the water action can be fierce in a gentle 'boat comes first' way. As much as anything a CVRDA Rally is exactly as described – a gathering of genuine enthusiasts who love their boats, gain pleasure from looking after them and who are keen to see our dinghy sailing heritage preserved for some time to come. Newcomers are warmly welcomed, offering help and advice for the beginner if needed, as well as crewing opportunities or the chance to sail something unusual.

Whether you want to take part or simply come and admire the many and varied craft, come along to Hunts SC and enjoy being part of dinghy sailing's quiet yet confident revival. Find out more at www.huntssc.org or www.cvrda.org