Blithfield Blast at Blithfield Sailing Club - Preview

Get ready for the 'Blithfield Blast' © Phil Mason

So after all the storms of February and the loss of the final round of the Barrel event, Blithfield Sailing Club are hosting the Blast, a one off free (yes free) to enter handicap event.

Sunday 1st of March will see us host what we are billing as our "pre season friendly". The days racing format will be three handicap races (two to count) starting at 11:30. The Blast is open to any monohull with a PY greater than 860.

Thanks to our generous sponsors Harken, Hartleys, Birmingham Dinghy Services, Freedom Brewery and Creation Covers we have an abundance of prizes to spread throughout the blast results, including cash prizes from Hartley Boats. We will also be presenting prizes for the Blithfield Barrel series.

Phantom National Champion Andy Couch will be there sailing his new toy, a VX1, with another two VX1s confirmed to be attending the Blast event. There is sure to be a good showing from various traditional club fleets including RS400s, Merlin Rockets and various single handers.

Club Commodore Ted Kurcaba says, "The Blithfield Blast is a free one off event for all. Due to the cancellation of the last round of the legendary barrel event, we decided to offer this pre season friendly to blast off the season full pelt. I am sure that lots of frustrated sailors will be champing at the bit to get back on the the water following the stormy conditions we have had throughout February. The club will be open on the Saturday for rigging/sailing if weather permits. We look forward to welcoming Blithfield newbies and seeing old friends again."

In the winter we are lucky to make full use of this fabulous 300 acre reservoir with uncomplicated race marks and easy launching area. The legendary Blithfield hospitality awaits with excellent wholesome food available from the galley, bar available throughout, and not forgetting those famous hot showers.

Lets kick off the 2020 season with a Blast...

For further details and NOR visit www.blithfield.org.uk and the club postcode is WS15 3DU.

Get ready for the 'Blithfield Blast' - photo © Tim Male