Gill Savills Optimist UK National Championship 2024 at Plas Heli Welsh National Sailing Academy: A Premier Sailing Event
Gill Savills Optimist UK National Championship 2024 at Plas Heli Welsh National Sailing Academy
The 2024 Gill Savills Optimist National Championships in Pwllheli anticipated a windy event with significant waves forecasted. Nearly 260 Optimists arrived at the Plas Heli, the Welsh National Sailing Academy, including many international competitors.
Senior Main Fleet
Day 1 proved to be challenging with gusty winds over 20 knots and steep swells reaching 6-8 feet. Leading the charge were Joan Domingo from Spain and Maurits Melens from Holland, who claimed the top two positions, followed by the UK’s Leo Gosling in third.
In Races 2 and 3, the competition remained fierce, with the top sailors exchanging leads. However, Domingo secured victory in Race 2, while Gosling clinched the win in Race 3.
Unfortunately, Day 2 saw racing cancelled due to gusts reaching 30 knots and dangerous sea conditions. Nevertheless, many families took the opportunity to explore North Wales, enjoying activities such as Aqua Park fun, Go Karting, the Zip Wire Experience, and Bounce Below.
On Tuesday, with the wind easing, racing resumed. The familiar frontrunners continued to excel, with Spain’s Sean Sadler winning Race 5 and Cornelia Baldock Frost from Sweden securing second place in Race 6. By Race 7, conditions intensified again, but Leo Gosling emerged as the winner.
Despite being sent out on Wednesday, the race committee deemed conditions hazardous and postponed further racing. Later that afternoon, one race was completed with Sean Sadler winning, followed by Domingo and Melens in second and third places respectively.
Due to worsening conditions, the final day of racing was also cancelled, leading to an early prize-giving ceremony. Leo Gosling finished third overall and earned the Senior British National Championship title, while Joan Domingo claimed the Open Championship title.
Junior Main Fleet
On day one of the Juniors, Charlie Holland showcased dominance with three wins, while Fraser Hakes from Parkstone earned three second places. Bear Baker from Lymington and Ruby Coster secured third places in the early races.
Tuesday brought four more races, with Hakes performing exceptionally well, securing victories and finishing second in other races, despite a BFD for Holland. The challenging conditions mirrored those faced by the Seniors. Ultimately, Charlie Holland was crowned the Junior National Champion, with Fraser Hakes and Bear Baker following in second and third places.
Regatta Racing
This year’s Regatta Racing Fleet featured 39 boats facing similar tough conditions as the Main Fleet. Although the first scheduled day of racing was cancelled due to challenging wind and tide conditions, sailors still had a chance to practice closer to shore.
On Tuesday, four races were completed under difficult circumstances, highlighting the determination of the fleet. Olivia Grant won the first race, with Zoe Green exhibiting superb consistency across the races, ultimately winning the Championship. The top three final positions were secured by Felix Palmer-Ward and Luke Moore.
Coached Regatta Fleet
The Coached Regatta Fleet, featuring a record 45 boats, was guided by Head Coach Andy Kerr. The initial day saw experienced sailors racing in brisk conditions, while younger competitors enjoyed a more manageable course. Day two was declared a lay day, leading into lighter conditions on day three, allowing for both training and racing.
The focus remained on individual growth, culminating in a fun prize-giving filled with special recognition for sailors’ accomplishments. Archie Dowling from Royal Lymington YC emerged as the overall winner with three straight firsts, followed by Blaise Kemp and Hamish Munro.
A heartfelt thank you goes to Plas Heli, the Welsh National Sailing Academy, for hosting the event, along with all sponsors, especially lead sponsors Gill Marine and Savills Estate Agents. Additionally, a special mention to PRO Chris Hoppins and his team, and all parent volunteers for their invaluable support.
Next year, the Optimist Nationals will return to Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy, scheduled from Saturday, July 26 to Friday, August 1.
Luca Moretti, an accomplished sailor and marine journalist from Genoa, Italy, has a lifelong passion for the sea that has defined his career. With a degree in Marine Journalism from the University of Genoa, Luca is celebrated for his vivid and insightful storytelling. His work captures the excitement of sailing and the rich maritime traditions of Europe, making him a well-respected voice in the sailing community. When he’s not writing, Luca can be found exploring the Mediterranean’s picturesque coastlines and competing in regattas, always seeking new adventures on the open water.