Rooster 420 UK National Championship at Hayling Island Sailing Club - Day 1

420 UK Nationals at Hayling Island day 1 © Jennie Clark

420 UK Nationals at Hayling Island day 1 © Jennie Clark

420 UK Nationals at Hayling Island day 1 © Jennie Clark

A superb entry of 47 boats got away promptly from the beach at Hayling Island SC for day one of their Rooster sponsored 2019 National Championship. Under PRO Zeb Elliott two races were held, both making use of the south easterly wind in the bay. With wall to wall sunshine hats, sunglasses and lots of hydration were the order of the day.

This year the fleet have been 'buddied' to encourage those who've had a time in the class to share knowledge and expertise with those new to the class. Buddies were introduced at the briefing and encouraged to work together over the event to maximize their chances of some great prizes.

Dave Treagust, Rooster's Marketing Manager, brought along the new range of 420 clothing to showcase it to the fleet - items are available direct from Rooster' s website and judging by the level of interest the long sleeved technical tops are going to be a huge hit with the fleet.

Race one was a challenge with conditions described as 'light and choppy' and the results showed it with some of those expected to be at the front 'up there' but others 'way down' the listing. Martin Wigley and Marcus Tressler took line honours with Sophie Edwards and Ellie Thomas second. Haydn Sewell and William Heathcoate were third, and Megan Ferguson, crewed by Nick Devereux were fourth and first mixed pairing.

Race two, once again sailed out in the bay, saw Neil Marsden/Fraser Hemmings in the lead from the first windward mark rounding with Freddie and Jack Parkin 2nd and Haydn/William in 3rd.

With the wind dropping off the fleet were grateful to the many RIBS who towed them back in. A great day to start the 2019 Nationals - here's to day 2!

Results after Day 2: