An epic weekend for 24 female sailors from Christchurch Sailing Club
by Clare de la Feuillade 6 Mar 18:57 GMT
28 February - 1 March 2026
With World Women's day approaching this weekend, it's apt that 24 female sailors from Christchurch Sailing Club have just returned from an epic weekend afloat in the Solent with the Tallships Youth Trust.
Last weekend, women in their 40s, 50s, 60s and 70s sailed two 72ft Challenger yachts from their base at Gunwharf Quays, skippered by an all female team too!
"Over the course of 2 days, we all helmed, raced, trimmed, sweated, winched, and laughed. We learnt about wind, tide, teamwork, and so much more. Not just about sailing, but also ourselves. At some point over the weekend, we were all challenged outside of our comfort zone, but we all succeeded."
"On Saturday, we had 15-20 knots and sunshine, and over the course of the day we learnt how to handle these enormous yachts, with their heavy loads. We also found time for racing! "
Saturday night was spent in Cowes, eating, drinking, and sharing stories and experiences.
Sunday morning was less appealing, with lots of rain and wind, but as the day progressed, the weather improved, we dried out, and on our return to Gunwharf Quay Sunday afternoon, we all felt like heroes.
We would like to thank CSC for their support, and also Christine Beasley, whose legacy to the Ladies Sailing group helped to make the weekend happen. We know she would have enjoyed every single minute of it.