Classic Phantom Cup returns to Fishers Green
by Mike Blunt 15 Jun 14:47 BST
6 June 2026
Mike (896) during the Classic Phantom Cup at Fishers Green © Angie Meyer Photography
The 6th of June saw a return to Fishers Green SC for the Classic Phantom Cup, with hopes of a larger turnout for the event.
Early arrivals were greeted by a moderate south-westerly breeze and rain, with forecasts indicating that the wind would steadily build through the morning in time for the start of Race One. Conditions developed into a lively and gusty day, with sustained winds of around 10-16 knots and gusts exceeding 25 knots at times.
The home fleet decided the conditions didn't suit, so a number of boats remained covered, with the exception of Dave Hodges (#897), flying the flag for FGSC.
With visitors from Notts County and Maldon YC & Creeksea, the Cup was up for grabs. The sun came out, boats were rigged, and the wind got stronger.
Race 1
With four boats in the competition, there was plenty of space on the start line. All were a little shy, with the exception of Alan Husk (#905), who made a good start, closely followed by Simon White (#949), Dave Hodges (#897) and Mike Blunt (#896).
Alan was first to the windward mark, then Simon, Mike and Dave. At the second mark, Mike was squeezed out, meaning he had some catching up to do. He needs to brush up on the sailing rules.
By the third leg, Simon had broken away and established a lead. Alan, Mike and Dave kept the competition close throughout the race. Conditions were very shifty, and Mike caught a break, passing Alan and catching Simon with two legs remaining. Simon stood on at the last mark before tacking for the line. Mike tacked immediately and took his chances.
Honours went to Simon in #949, complete with Dacron sail and tin rig. Mike finished 2nd, Alan 3rd and Dave 4th.
Race 2
The wind was increasing, and the Fantastic Four lined up again. Simon got the best start, making the windward mark first, followed by Alan, Dave and Mike.
Competition was close between all four boats. By the second lap, Dave had played the shifts well to take the lead, only to come a cropper at the windward mark with a spectacular capsize, letting everyone through.
Mike was finding more speed on the beats and pulled away from the fleet. Simon capsized at the penultimate mark, allowing Mike to extend his lead.
Final placings were Mike 1st, Simon 2nd, Alan 3rd and Dave 4th.
With a break for lunch and the wind still strong, two boats decided not to compete further, with very valid reasons. As a consequence, the remaining two also decided not to venture back out.
With first and second tied after two races, the Racing Rules state that the boat with the better score in the last race wins the tie.
The event win and title of Classic Cup Champion therefore went to Mike (#896).
A brief presentation of the Classic Phantom Cup, very generously donated by Moira Nash on behalf of the designers' families, followed.
Our thanks go to FGSC for hosting, providing great race management and excellent catering. Special thanks to Kevin and Godfrey. Thanks also to www.angiemeyerphotography.co.uk for the quality pictures.
The future of the Classic Phantom Cup looks good. We already know of around 15 classic boats that are sailing or being restored, and there are almost certainly more hidden away across the country. With the venue for the 2027 event still to be confirmed, there is plenty of time to spread the word and grow the fleet. There's every reason to believe that double-figure entries are within reach next season.
If you have a classic Phantom sitting under a cover, we'd love to see you on the start line in 2027. Check our Facebook community 'Phantom Revival Fleet (Classic)'.