Tony B and Bob W represented Waveney Sailability in the Hansa Nationals at Rutland this year. Again, hats off to Tony for towing the boats to Rutland and many thanks to those at Waveney for loading them prior to the journey. Caroline Jackie and her husband also made the trip to support the team. Unfortunately, Vic couldn’t make it due to some health issues, but kept in contact to find out how things were going.

Bobs wife, Caroline, has now become very familiar with rigging the 303’s and loading/offloading the trailer, and her encouragement for Bob and Tony was, again, invaluable. She also represented Waveney Sailability at the Hansa UK AGM, gaining some good knowledge ready for our forthcoming TT event at Oulton Broad.

The weather at Rutland was superb, but unfortunately marred by the lack of wind every day. On the first day of racing, most competitors wore shorts and tea shirts as it was so hot but, no sooner had the races started, it hammered down with rain, soaking everyone. The light breeze made for some difficult racing, especially against tough opposition.

The second day was worse with no wind at all. In hot, cloudless sunny skies, it took an hour to reach the start line, and another hour trying to get over it. Racing was eventually abandoned for the day and everyone was towed back in. Got a good suntan though!

Day three was marginally better but only two races were held instead of the planned four. Both Bob and Tony raced well in the last one, coming in well placed to finish the event.

Despite the disappointing weather, sailing against some of Britains finest is a hugely rewarding experience and the knowledge gained from it excellent. People at these events are always so helpful and eager to offer advice to improve others racing.

At the prizegiving an Endevour Trophy was awarded to a Deaf Blind sailor. Wow, what a finish!

Report by Bob Waters.