Rolling out the Barrel for its 16th year: The Midlands Premiere Winter Race Series
by Michelle Keeling 15 Oct 2019 16:05 BST
24 November 2019 - 9 February 2020
Blithfield Barrel racing © Iain Ferguson
It's getting to that time of year again when the regional circuits all come to an end, but don't despair! Don't hang up the undercover and think about servicing the trailer. There is still a whole load of fun racing to be had. Get that winter steamer and hot socks ready for the legendary Blithfield Barrel!
Situated on the banks of the largest reservoir in Staffordshire, Blithfield Sailing Club kicks off its first Round of this favourite winter warmer event 'The Blithfield Barrel'.
This 'must do' winter event comprises of 4 days of top class racing, starting on 24th November, continuing on 15th December and 12th January and finishing on February 9th. Enjoy 2 races per day with each event running as a one off open meeting with spot prizes after each round, or do all 4 for the main Barrel series. Make sure the dates are in your diary! Prizes will be spread throughout the fleets thanks to our generous sponsors Harken, Hartley Boats, Birmingham Dinghy Services, Freedom Brewery and Creation Covers.
Blithfield Sailing Club have a reputation for running successful prestigious events such as Solos, Ospreys, Lasers, Larks, Supernovas and Merlins, and have honed their hosting and race management skills to the max. They welcome all friends from across the counties and fleets, to compete in the Midlands premiere race series.
See what these top sailors have to say about it:
Andy Davis, from HD Sails and winner of the Barrel Series 2018/19: "Looking forward to the Blithfield Barrel this Autumn/Winter, always a good day of racing and a filling lunch worth the trip alone & of course with the hottest showers in the land, make it an event not to miss. With one day of racing each month it's easy to plan in the calendar and something to look forward too."
In the winter we are lucky to make full use of this fabulous reservoir. Located in beautiful surroundings the sailing area is an extensive 300 acres with uncomplicated race marks for Blithfield newbies. We look forward to welcoming all mono hulls with a PN greater then 860 to take part in the 16th Blithfield Barrel series. There will be 8 races in total with 6 to count, briefing at 11:15, race starts scheduled for 12:00 and 14:00 each day. The legendary Blithfield hospitality awaits with excellent wholesome food from the galley, bar available throughout, and free tea and coffee."
Andy Couch - Phantom National Champion 2019: "Really looking forward to the Blithfield Barrel which starts on the 24th November. It is the best piece of inland water in the area and the Barrel always attracts some of the best competition in the area/county. A winter series not to be missed!"
Find out more at www.blithfield.org.uk/barrel