Pinnell & Bax Phantom Nationals 2025 at Hooe Point Sailing Club - Overall

Pinnell & Bax Phantom Nationals at Hooe Point - Day 3 © Nicola Davies

Accounting for day two's abandoned and cancelled races, the RO planned three races instead of two on the final day, planning for success, the course was set inside the breakwater. The forecast was cooler than the previous two days, 9-12 Kts from the north, increasing to 13-18kts and veering to NW.

A couple of injuries and commitments reduced those taking to the water to 52. After three results from a possible five races, the competition remained extremely close with numerous possible champions. Launching was opposed to day two, with less than 2 kts at Mountbatten Slipway, the safety boats helped the stragglers out whilst others drifted ahead in the outgoing tide.

Upon entering the Plymouth Sound beyond Fort Stamford, the gusty wind suddenly switched on.

Pinnell & Bax Phantom Nationals at Hooe Point - Day 3 - photo © Nicola Davies

Race Four : 7-12 kts

Those keen to make an impact on day 3, some were a tad overzealous, triggering the first general recall of the day. And when I say overzealous, some were closer to the windward mark than the start line! Upon a successful start sequence, Will Gulliver 1481 Northampton took an early lead only to be relegated to 3rd at the last (see below for DOD award), 1st Harry Briddon 1507 Ogston and a revitalised 2nd Sam Coxon 1450 Chase.

Race Five : 8-17kts

We got under way with no problems; the left-hand side of the beat, with less tide, proved favoured. The wind continued to strengthen, gusty with occasional shifts for those paying attention. First to the windward mark was Jon Rickard, 1506 Hooe Point, followed by Harry Briddon and John Harrison 1380 Rudyard Lake.

Jon Rickard led throughout, and the remaining top ten places shuffled, even right up to the finish line! 1st Jon Rickard, 2nd Harry Briddon, 3rd Nick Orman Castle Cove.

Race Six : 9-18kts

There was a reasonable delay whilst a ferry made her approach to the harbour, however, the start sequence was initiated as soon as the danger had passed. The wait had clearly dialled up the anticipation and again general recall was called. This time the black flag was out, no messing around, the fleet started cautiously, with even split of boats going left and right.

Towards the top of the left beat, a 35-degree west wind shift occurred, rewarding those with an almost fetch to the windward mark and hanging out those to dry on the right, splitting the fleet. Will Gulliver led for most of the race, closely followed by Jon Rickard.

Will Gulliver made an error at the finish, and Jon Rickard seized the opportunity, winning himself the National Championship and pushing Will back to 2nd. The fast and ever-consistent Nick Orman claimed 3rd.

Pinnell & Bax Phantom Nationals at Hooe Point - Day 3 - photo © Nicola Davies

DOD Award

Prior to the main prize-giving the last 2025 Championship "D of the Day" (DOD) was awarded.

Everyone must've had their game faces on — the nomination pool was dry this time. Even Sprucey Watch turned up nothing, aside from a classic blatant OCS during one of the general recalls. But let's be honest, if Mark doesn't jump the line at least once, is it really even a Phantom event?

Now, word has it that at the start of Race 4, some jester attempted to squeeze in at the committee boat mark and ended up redecorating their bow with a bit of Jeremy Deacon. Their reward? Two tacks, two gybes, and the full judgemental glare of the committee boat crew. The less said, the better - author's discretion firmly exercised.

But despite the relatively clean sheet, we do have a clear and deserving winner of the coveted DOD day award: Will Gulliver.

You see, the saying "sailing speed makes you a tactical genius" only really works if you're looking where you're going. In Race 4, Will was comfortably leading... right up until he forgot the leeward mark existed. A last-minute U-turn and two lost places later, we were all reminded that nav skills are optional, but costly.

Not to be outdone, in Race 6, Will led once again — this time rounding the leeward mark closely (presumably to make very sure it was there) that second-place boat (Jon Rickard) sailed in on a hot angle and snatched the win.

Consistency is key — even in error! Congratulations, Will. You join an elite circle of DOD champions. The DOD bucket hat is yours to wear with pride.

And as my final piece of Phantom writing for the year nears the end, I'll be proposing free eye tests for all over-40s at next year's AGM. You're welcome.

Pinnell & Bax Phantom Nationals at Hooe Point - Day 3 - photo © Nicola Davies

Other Awards

Silver Fleet:
1st Andy Pyett 1488 Combs
2nd Richard Nurse 1500 Northampton
3rd Richard Cumberbatch Castle Cove

Age Categories Winners:
20's Ben Hawkes 1467 RAFSA
30's Jon Rickard 1506 Hooe Point
40's Mark Addison 1489 Upper Thames
50's Nick Orman 1487 Castle Cove
60's John Wayling 1504 Northampton
70's Jimmy Sanderson 1326 East Lothian

50th Anniversary Designer Wives Trophy (highest place classic boat):
Mike Blunt 896 Notts County

Endeavour Trophy (last placed competitor to finish all races):
Nick Favell 1394 Great Yarmouth and Gorleston

Team Trophy:
Northampton SC

Buddy League:
1st Paul Birbeck 1508 Castle Cove & Richard Woodward 1377 Castle Cove
2nd Steve Mcdonald 1259 Starcross and John Tailby 1036 Notts County
3rd Will Gulliver 1481 Northampton and Michelle Coller-Brookes 1418 Oxford

The venue delivered as promised, serving up a mix of conditions that challenged every competitor. The boat park buzzed with community spirit — from tuning and repairs to shared advice and lively discussions. While a few may reflect on missed chances, all who took part left with smiles and a sense of satisfaction. The Phantom class continues to grow its reputation for competitive, technically demanding racing, all wrapped in a welcoming and fun atmosphere. Regional training and events run throughout the year, keeping the momentum strong.

Summary

Huge congratulations to Jon Rickard — not only did he invest a great deal of personal time and effort to help make this event happen, but to top it off by winning the National Championship on home waters is something truly special.

Last but certainly not least, a heartfelt thank you to Hooe Point Sailing Club and its members, the Phantom Class Association committee members, race crew, safety boat volunteers, beach crew, bar and June's catering — your dedication made this event possible.

Class website: www.phantomclass.org.uk

This year's event sponsors:

P&B
HD sails
Optimum Time
Ovington Boats
Allen Brothers
Allspars
Sailors Direct Insurance
LIFTECH Ltd
Vicky's Embroidery

Pinnell & Bax Phantom Nationals at Hooe Point - Day 3 - photo © Moira Nash

Overall Results:
If you finished in the top ten at the Phantom nationals then enter your Gear Guide information