Craftinsure Wayfarer National Circuit in 2024 - A Year in Review

Wayfarer Northern Area Championship at Leigh & Lowton © Paul Hargreaves Photography

The 2024 sailing season for the Wayfarers involved racing across some of the UK's most prestigious sailing club venues, all made possible by the generous support of our title sponsor, Craftinsure, along with McNamara Sails, Hartley Boats, and Allen Brothers. The season was marked by very close competition, varied weather conditions, and the unwavering dedication of club volunteers and fleet captains who ensured the smooth running of each event.

The season kicked off at Datchet Water Sailing Club with the Inland Championships on April 13-14. This event saw a mix of familiar national circuit faces and newcomers to the fleet, all eager to test their inland sailing skills in challenging conditions. 2023 National Champions Andrew and Tom Wilson ultimately emerged victorious, showcasing their tactical prowess and consistency across the weekend.

Wayfarer Inlands 2024 at Datchet - photo © DWSC

Next, the fleet returned to Shoreham Sailing Club for the Pre-National event on May 18-19. The light and moderate winds tested the sailors' adaptability, with Ian Foxwell and Sam Pygall winning an extremely competitive event on countback. The successful event was a testament to the competitive spirit and nature of the fleet and the excellent organisation by Lisa Whitney and her Shoreham team.

Craftinsure Wayfarer National Circuit at Shoreham - photo © Warwick Baker / www.warwickpics.com

The Western Area Championships at Banbury Sailing Club on June 1-2 provided another set of challenges with its interesting wind conditions over the course of the weekend. Regular travellers Nigel and Belinda O'Donnell took the top spot once again at this event, demonstrating their skill and determination. The event was well-supported by the club's volunteers, who ensured everything ran smoothly and to plan.

A definite highlight of the season was the UK Wayfarer National Championships at Paignton Sailing Club from June 13-16. The fantastic sailing area of Torbay provided a perfect backdrop for intense racing against generously sponsored by Craftinsure, Hartley Boats, McNamara Sail and Allen Brothers. Michael McNamara and Simon Townsend re-claimed the championship title, showcasing their exceptional boat handling and tactical skills in some enormous winds. The event was a true celebration of the Wayfarer class, with excellent support from the club's volunteers and a special mention to Nick Ripley who not only organised the event but provided tremendous leadership as the event race officer.

Wayfarer Nationals 2024 at Paignton - photo © Tom Wild

The Southern Area Championships at Arun Yacht Club on July 27-28 offered both high wind and lighter wind conditions at this fantastic sea venue, testing the sailors' versatility. Andrew and Martin Wilson emerged as the winners, with Andrew adding another title to his impressively consistent season. The event was a success thanks to the tireless efforts of Paul Hughes, Mark Nicholls, and the Arun Yacht Club team. This really is a fantastic Club and we hope to return soon for future events.

Wayfarer Southerns at Arun - photo © Arun Yacht Club

The Eastern Area Championships at Aldeburgh Yacht Club on August 3-4 featured classic river racing on the River Alde. Guy Marks and Sam Boniface took the top honours, demonstrating their river sailing skills. The event was well-organized by Aldeburgh, who ensured a memorable experience for all participants in a beautiful part of the country.

The Northern Area Championships at Leigh and Lowton Sailing Club on August 31-September 1 provided shifty and gusty conditions, challenging the sailors' tactical abilities. The local team of Louise Mckeand and Nigel Hall emerged victorious, showcasing their adaptability and skill. The event was a testament to the club's growing Wayfarer fleet and the excellent support from the volunteers. Again, we hope to return to Leigh and Lowton in the future.

Wayfarer Craftinsure National Circuit Open at Blackwater - photo © Zoe Nelson, BSC

The season ending up concluding with an open meeting at Blackwater Sailing Club on October 5-6. The champagne sailing conditions and steady winds provided a fitting end to the season. Elliot Marks and Sam Pygall claimed the top spot, capping off a successful season. The event was a success thanks to the dedication of Steve Perkins and the Blackwater team.

Unfortunately the scheduled Finale was unable to be held at Bough Beech owing to a complete lack of wind over the scheduled weekend. A decision will be made early in the new year on whether to hold a postponed event in the first part of 2025. Stay tuned!

Throughout the season, the support of our sponsors, Craftinsure, McNamara Sails, Hartley Boats, and Allen Brothers, was invaluable. Their contributions ensured the success of each event and the overall growth of the Wayfarer class. The dedication of club volunteers and fleet captains was equally crucial, as they worked tirelessly to organize and run each event, ensuring a memorable experience for all participants.

Wayfarers on Bournemouth Digital Poole Week 2024 Day 4 - photo © David Harding / www.sailingscenes.com

As shout-out for the standout sailors of the 2024 season included Andrew and Tom/Martin Wilson, who won the Inland Championships and the Southern Area Championships; Ian Foxwell and Sam Pygall, who won the Pre-National event; Nigel and Belinda O'Donnell, who won the Western Area Championships; Michael McNamara and Simon Townsend, who claimed the National Championships; Guy Marks and Sam Boniface, who won the Eastern Area Championships; Louise Mckeand and Nigel Hall, who won the Northern Area Championships; and Elliot Marks and Sam Pygall, who won the open meeting at Blackwater Sailing Club. The variety of winning teams is testament to the close racing that we enjoyed.

The 2024 Wayfarer sailing season was a celebration of skill, competition, and camaraderie, highlighting the best of what this extremely versatile class has to offer.

At this point, the UK Wayfarer Association is thrilled to announce the upcoming 2025 Wayfarer sailing season, packed with exhilarating events and fierce competitions that promise unforgettable moments on the water! This season will see a return to the celebrated shores of Shoreham for the UK Nationals and a chance to compete on an international stage at the International Championships in Denmark.

Wayfarer Westerns and Craftinsure National Circuit event at Banbury - photo © Matt Swanwick

Our 2025 racing calendar is brimming with opportunities to showcase your sailing prowess and connect with fellow enthusiasts. We can't wait to witness new battles, triumphant victories, and the sheer joy of sailing in the spirit of camaraderie. The anticipation is palpable, and we are eager to see who will rise to the challenge and claim the ultimate glory.

Below is a preview of the exciting Wayfarer racing events lined up for 2025. Mark your calendars, and make sure to join us for what promises to be a spectacular season filled with thrilling races and vibrant community spirit. See you on the water!

Provisional Wayfarer Racing events and regattas in 2025:

Three Rivers Race - photo © Holly Hancock