2021 Streaker Nationals at Staunton Harold Sailing Club - Day 1

Tom Gillard first to launch on day 1 of the 2021 Streaker Nationals at Staunton Harold © Karen Langston

Waiting for the breeze on day 1 of the 2021 Streaker Nationals at Staunton Harold © Karen Langston

The only real winner on day one of the Noble Marine Streaker Nationals at Staunton Harold was James Dawes (2131). He missed the day to go swimming with his young son, while the rest of the fleet enjoyed a sunny afternoon on the banks of the picturesque reservoir.

Race Officer Paul Williamson did see the possibility of a steady enough breeze in the middle of the afternoon. He released the fleet, with Tom Gillard (2111) first to launch and test the conditions. With everyone (except James) afloat, it was looking good for about 10 minutes, but the euphoria was short lived with the huge wind shifts killing any prospects of a fair race.

So, with an extra race scheduled for day 2 (and a slightly better forecast), the sailors set about making the most of the summer BBQ & Pimms - and conversations of what might have been.

First to the windward mark on day 1 of the 2021 Streaker Nationals at Staunton Harold - photo © Karen Langston