DeWalt Scorpion National Championship at Eastbourne Sovereign Sailing Club - Day 2

Race three

As the morning sun cast its golden rays upon the waters, sailors gathered, their hearts aflutter with anticipation and excitement, ready to unleash their sailing prowess and vie for glory in Race 3, the first race on Monday. The race's inception was met with a bittersweet twist, for a General Recall was announced due to timing issues. Yet, like star-crossed lovers, the fleet returned to the starting line, determined to seize their chance at victory.

When the fleet finally got away the air was charged with excitement as Martin Pascoe and Tim Hulley on 1980 decided to mount the guard boat. Not the fastest approach to starting! Among the pairings, Tom Lonsdale/Emily Cole-Evans and Shane McCarthy/Shandy proved a captivating duo, their chemistry evident as they embarked on a tantalizingly slow start on the left side of the course. As if enchanted by their beguiling dance with the wind, the rest of the fleet felt an irresistible pull to venture hard right, yearning to explore the scenic delights of the shoreline keeping out of the tide and following the breeze.

DeWALT Scorpion Nationals at Eastbourne Day 2 - photo © Ben / Send It Media

Amidst the unfolding spectacle, a daring spectator had a delightful notion to test an inflatable kayak, seeking an up-close view of the riveting racing action. Alas, the whimsical waves conspired with the mischievous winds, leading to a few capsizes and a most entertaining beaching upon the shore. Oh, the joys of maritime exploration!

But the racing heart knows no respite, and as the breeze built, so did the fervour of the competition. Alan Krailing and Simon 'Bear' Forbes, like gods of the sea, charted a course to victory, their mastery of the elements propelling them to claim the coveted race win. Dave Wade and Ben Raynor, a force of nature in their own right, harnessed the winds to secure a dazzling second place. And with unwavering determination, Alex Hayman and Rob Henderson sailed steadfastly to capture a well-earned third position, a testament to their resilience upon the waves.

DeWALT Scorpion Nationals at Eastbourne Day 2 - photo © Ben / Send It Media

Race four

The tempestuous waves and capricious winds, fate wove a tale of surprises upon the vast expanse of the sea. As the race commenced, a pleasure cruiser dared to interpose itself between the gate boat, causing the racing gods to decree a General Recall, anointing fairness upon the event.

Some daring sailors were left perplexed amidst the dance of the elements, but Barnaby Croft and Louise Corfield faced the trials of Race 4, a day that tested their mettle and passion. The sea graced them with challenges, leading to not one, not two, but four captivating capsizes. Yet, with each tumble, their spirits soared higher, for every minute spent upon the water was a cherished moment in their hearts, securing their first race finish taking 46th place.

DeWALT Scorpion Nationals at Eastbourne Day 2 - photo © Ben / Send It Media

With the winds' crescendo, the fleet found themselves embracing a new aquatic sport - open water swimming! Dave and Ben, Sam Pascoe and Sam Barker (aka Sam Squared), Hayman/Henderson, and Kevin 'Gonzo' Gosling and Andy Service, all declaring themselves as captains of splash, taking a dip into the playful waves, their spirits undeterred by the unexpected twist of events.

Alas, fortune frowned upon some sailors, as breakages wreaked havoc amidst the racing fray. Sammy Mason and Richard 'Boggy' Mason's main sheet block, weary of the tumultuous seas, bid farewell, leaving them to navigate the waters with hands and wits alone. And behold, Barry Wolfenden and Matt Rayner, with audacious flair, eschewed the conventional ways, abandoning his boom, and venturing into the wild unknown, a true sailor's adventure!

DeWALT Scorpion Nationals at Eastbourne Day 2 - photo © Ben / Send It Media

Triumph awaited those who dared to sail the course with vigour and mastery. Alan and Simon, tamed the unruly tides to claim the coveted race win. Tom Gillard and Rachael Gray, a force to be reckoned with, raced through with unwavering spirit to seize the second position, their sails billowing with triumph. And in the embrace of the waves, Hayman and Henderson secured a well-earned third place, their hearts aflame with the passion of the sea.

Results after Day 2:

Find out more at sailscorpion.co.uk/scorpion-national-championships-2023.html