IOCA Optimist End of Season Championships at Parkstone Yacht Club
by IOCA UK 11 Oct 10:00 BST
4-5 October 2025
The IOCA Optimist End of Season Championships was set over a very breezy weekend at Parkstone Yacht Club, October 4-5th 2025. Storm Amy led to the cancellation of Day 1, but by Sunday the wind had moderated, and three fleets braved gusty conditions to complete a great day of racing.
The main fleet had 85 entries and were able to complete 4 races in the top triangle of Poole Harbour. With the Poole Harbour tide flooding upwind, the race committee led by Bryan Drake had to keep the fleet in check and after a number of general recalls the U flag came out.
The winner Laszlo Drummond had a strong day with two first place results, Charlie Holland 2nd, also first Junior and Patrick Di Salle 3rd, with very few points separating the first four sailors. First female sailor went to Gracie Allsopp finishing 7th overall and first Junior Girl was Chloe Davis.
Regatta fleet raced in front of the marina and featured 33 sailors, tough conditions led to a few retirements, but 4 races were successfully completed with Roger Hakes as Rac Officer. First place was taken by Evelyn Rogerson with all results within the top 3, second place went to Sebastian Richardson, and third to Xenia Hudson. The Endeavour award went to Skye Lynch.
Despite the weather the intrepid coached regatta sailors, some in their first IOCA event braved the conditions sailing from the slipway close to the club supported by some fantastic Coaches, and parents on hand to catch boats. Three races were completed by the end of the day with first place taken by Joshua Gillow, 2nd place Adam Oldale, and 3rd place Laura Halliwell.
Parkstone YC is one of the leading Optimist clubs and provided a fantastic welcome to the class. Thank you to the club and all the many volunteer members and parents who make these events happen.
Full results can be found here.