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Oliver Groves and Esther Parkhurst claimed the dinghy champion of champions title at the 2024 Endeavour Trophy. The dynamic duo from the 2000 class emerged victorious after a close final day battle on the River Crouch. They sailed impressively in tricky, light, and shifty conditions to secure the overall win by 4 points over their nearest rivals, Sam Whaley and Jess Hammett from the WASZP class.
Reflecting on their victory, Groves and Parkhurst expressed their shock and happiness at winning the prestigious Endeavour Trophy. They emphasized the importance of protecting their position in the final races and praised their competitors for their skilled performance throughout the competition.
The third-place finishers, Finley Dickinson and Elysia O’Leary from the ILCA 7 class, wowed the crowd with their strategic decision-making and impeccable judgment in the first race. Despite challenging conditions, they managed to secure a significant lead and clinch victory in impressive fashion.
The tense final race saw young sailor Ben Pascoe sailing alongside his father Sam in the Musto Skiff, leading the pack until they were narrowly defeated by Joseph Warwicker and Matthew Wolstenholme from the Snipe class.
The prize-giving ceremony at the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club crowned Groves and Parkhurst as the 2024 Endeavour champions, with their names engraved on the prestigious solid silver model and the half model of the America’s Cup J-Class yacht Endeavour.
Overall Results:
1st 2000 – Oliver Groves and Esther Parkhurst, 12pts
2nd WASZP – Sam Whaley and Jess Hammett, 16pts
3rd ILCA 7 – Finley Dickinson and Elysia O’Leary, 24pts
4th GP14 – Matt Mee and Jonny McGovern, 28pts
5th Merlin Rocket – Christian Birrell and Luke Patience, 35pts
6th Osprey – Matt Rainback and Faye Chatterton, 38pts
The Endeavour Trophy holds a rich history, dating back to Tom Sopwith’s legendary America’s Cup Challenge in 1934. The annual competition at the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club honors the Champion of Champions in British dinghy racing, continuing a tradition of excellence and sportsmanship.
The Endeavour Trophy remains a highly competitive and challenging event, showcasing the talents of top dinghy sailors from a variety of classes. With carefully selected one-design boats and a unique racing format, the competition epitomizes the spirit of sailing excellence and camaraderie.
Partnering with leading brands in the sailing industry, the Endeavour Trophy upholds its reputation as one of the premier dinghy racing events in the UK. Supported by companies like RS sailing, Allen Brothers, The Old Salt Loft, Barbuck, PB Sports Photography, Hyde Sails, and Noble marine insurance, the competition continues to thrive and inspire the next generation of sailors.
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Oliver Hayes, a seasoned sailor and marine journalist from Southampton, has a profound love for the sea that has shaped his career. Holding a degree in Marine Journalism from the University of Portsmouth, Oliver is celebrated for his compelling and insightful storytelling. His work vividly captures the excitement of sailing and the rich maritime heritage of the United Kingdom, making him a respected figure in the sailing community. When not writing, Oliver enjoys exploring the British Isles’ diverse coastlines and participating in local regattas, always on the lookout for his next nautical adventure.