Allen OK Class UK Inland Championship at Rutland Sailing Club: A Premier Sailing Event
Allen OK Class UK Inland Championship at Rutland Sailing Club – Runners and Riders
7-8 September 2024
The eagerly anticipated OK UK Inland Championships is almost here. Over the weekend of 7th-8th September, for the first time in many years, the OK class will return to Rutland Water for the 2024 Allen sponsored Inland Championship, and round 4 of 5 of the Allen OK Dinghy Grand Slam.
With many established “top of the fleet” sailors preoccupied, and with the added challenge of inland lake sailing, this year’s events could easily see a new name claiming the Inland Trophy.
On the current entry list, two names stand out: Current World Number 3 and 2024 Medemblik winner Andy (Taxi) Davis, who will fancy his chances, although he hasn’t been in an OK for a while and could be a bit rusty.
Mathew Howard from Hayling Island had a choice of classes to sail in this shared Finn, Europe, and OK event. Fortunately for the Class, he has decided to sail his OK instead of his Europe. Matt is eyeing the worlds in Garda next year, potentially using this weekend as a training opportunity.
Other competitors who may be eyeing the podium include:
- Neil Goodhead, a specialist in light wind conditions, who is returning to the fleet after a few years off. He is starting to find his feet in his recently acquired Ovington boat, proving he still has the skills during this year’s Nationals.
- New class Secretary Simon Davis, who has a history of performing well at inland venues. There are rumors he’s undergoing physio to recapture his youthful flexibility; he’s certainly talking about it.
- Gavin Poulloin, hoping to retain a lead until the end of a race this time while sailing an old classic.
- Local competitor Micheal Airey, who will be familiar with the unique wind shifts around the lake, particularly in the expected North Easterly wind over the weekend.
With plenty of Allen prizes available, including a voucher through a prize draw, along with camping and bunk house accommodations at www.okdinghy.co.uk/venue/rutland-sc, plus pizza with dessert on offer at the club Saturday evening, there’s no reason to stay home doing chores when you could be enjoying a fantastic weekend of sailing at Rutland.
Entry remains open until Friday night at www.rutlandsailingclub.co.uk/events.
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.