National 12 Sprint Series at Burghfield Sailing Club

National 12 Sprint Series at Burghfield © Rob Starling & Ann Jackson

National 12 Sprint Series at Burghfield © Rob Starling & Ann Jackson

The National 12 class had a highly unpredictable day on the water at Burghfield Sailing Club. It was an excellent start to the N12 season, with no time to hang onto any winter cobwebs. The sprint racing format led to tight, competitive racing... and some much-needed starting practice.

We went from breezy to genuinely frightening, to sunny and peaceful, finishing with some rather dramatic hail, all in the space of just a few hours. This led to more than one hairy moment across the fleet.

With a building forecast, we were all keen to get onto the water. The breeze, blowing directly over the clubhouse, proved tricky. One boat capsized almost immediately, and it quickly settled into the classic shifty Burghfield wind that we all know (and love?). As a result, the fleet was generally split across the beat on every leg, with Burghfield locals favouring the right and the East Coasters (Tom + Isobel and Ian + Alex) preferring to tack up the left.

Ultimately, despite the locals' insider knowledge, the left seemed to pay pretty consistently, with the two East Coasters finishing first and second overall.

There were plenty of standout moments, with unpredictable gusts causing issues on all legs of the course. One of the more memorable came on a planing reach, looking back to see the aftermath at the gybe mark, where it seemed current national champions Graham and Blue had ended up with their bow inside Jonno and Charlotte's boat. For a more accurate account I would recommend consulting those involved, but I heard that Charlotte's knee was the only thing that stopped Graham and Blue going any farther. After this, Ian and Alex managed to sail through to a comfortable second place and went on to put together a series of consistent podium finishes.

National 12 Sprint Series at Burghfield - photo © Rob Starling & Ann Jackson

After a day that kept us on our toes, we came ashore to some of the biggest hailstones I've seen (Burghfield keeping on theme). The Camms brought delicious homemade cakes, and we sheltered in the warm clubhouse while the worst passed.

Thanks to our sponsors Blood Red Clothing, we had some great prizes for both the winners and a few well-deserved spot prizes. It was great to see everyone at Burghfield. Our next event is at Salcombe Yacht Club, 2nd-4th May, you bring your boat - we'll provide the sunshine!

Overall Results: