Allen Sailing National 12 Burton Week 2024: Join Us at Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club

Allen Sailing National 12 Burton Week 2024 at Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club

18-21 August 2024

It was the National 12’s turn to visit Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club in Suffolk for a National Championship this year, building on a very successful N12 Nationals held at FFSC in 2022 and the Firefly Nationals in 2023. Once again, the weather delivered perfectly, and the club showcased their expertise in hosting a top-notch championship event at sea.

As the N12 sailors arrived in Felixstowe, anticipation surrounded the performance of the younger generation as they aimed to outshine their parents, now referred to as the older generation. We were also hopeful that Covid was behind us; however, a few sailors could not participate fully in the event.

Sunday 18th August

On paper, the first day appeared perfect with winds predicted at 12-15 knots and a bright blue sea. In reality, the breeze was unstable, creating opportunities for big gains and significant losses across the racecourse.

The first race was won by Graham & Blue Camm (N3530), followed closely by defending champions Tom & Isobel Stewart (N3544) and the promising combination of Ollie ‘I’ve done a lot of sailing this summer’ Meadowcroft and Helen Hilditch sailing Ollie’s dad’s Hijack (N3543). Tim & Chris Hampshire, sailing a Big Issue without T-Foil, had a challenging moment, capsizing after rounding the windward mark in the top 5.

The second race mirrored the first with dramatic shifts in wind and boats frequently becalmed. Those who began at the committee boat end found a favorable streak of breeze, while others faced challenges. George Finch & Luke Lazell (N3551), Rob & Harley Ford (N3549), and Roland & Katie Whitehead (N3546) made tactical moves inland but faced a breeze drop just as they aimed for the windward mark.

The surprise of the day came from Antony & Jo Gifford (N3529) leading around the windward mark. With Jo expertly navigating the shifts, they managed to pull away from the struggling fleet to maintain a comfortable lead. Tom & Isobel Stewart finished 2nd, with Graham & Blue Camm completing the podium.

Monday 19th August – The Burton Cup

On Monday, a spooky sea mist greeted the sailors, delaying the start until a faint breeze emerged. The first race saw a trapezoidal course set for the Burton Cup, requiring skills against an increasing tide and creating classic ‘East Coast Chop.’

Ollie Meadowcroft & Helen Hilditch (N3543) initially led the race, closely followed by Tom & Isobel Stewart (N3544) and James & Rory Gifford (N3484). Ollie & Helen won, finishing a leg ahead of Tom & Isobel, while James & Rory held 3rd place despite challenges within the fleet.

A total of seven boats retired due to fatigue and gear failures during the race, showcasing the event’s intensity. The safety boat crews were instrumental in assisting participants as they returned to shore amid the challenging conditions.

The Burton Dinner on Monday evening celebrated Ollie Meadowcroft & Helen Hilditch as the new Burton Cup winners, marking a significant achievement for Ollie, who had previously been the only member of his family not to win this prestigious trophy.

The National 12 Decanter was awarded to Janet & Kevan Bloor for their outstanding dedication to organizing the N12 class and their remarkable work during the Burton Week since the 1980s. Additionally, HD Sails donated a jib to the N12 class, with the winner announced during the dinner.

Tuesday 20th August

As the week progressed, the fleet was noticeably lighter due to gear failures and other issues. There was much anticipation regarding when Tom & Isobel Stewart (N3544) would secure their first race win after several years.

They delivered with a solid victory in the first race on Tuesday, managing to fend off pressure from Ollie Meadowcroft & Helen Hilditch (N3543), who placed 2nd, while Graham & Blue Camm (N3530) took 3rd after James & Rory Gifford (N3484) retired due to a broken shroud.

The second race saw a further increase in breeze, with Tom & Isobel maintaining their lead, despite challenges from George Finch & Luke Lazell (N3551) and Ollie & Helen, who managed to climb back into the top positions.

Wednesday 21st August

The final day brought varying winds, but Ollie and Helen took the early lead in the first race, putting them in a strong position for the championship title. However, after a challenging series of conditions, Ollie & Helen faced gear failure, leading to their retirement from the final race, ending their hopes of clinching the championship.

Graham & Blue Camm (N3530) secured 2nd place, with Antony & Jo Gifford (N3529) rounding out the podium.

Overall Subsidiary Winners:

1st Non T-Foil N12 – Rob & Harley Ford, N3459
1st U21 Helm – Ollie Meadowcroft & Helen Hilditch, N3543
1st Canter Helm (Over 21, Under 40) – George Finch & Luke Lazell, N3551
1st Grand Master (55+) – Jon Ibbotson & Rhona Enkel, N3540
Gill Super Crew (1st New Crew) – Rhona Enkel, crew of N3540
Arrows Trophy (1st New Helm) – Nick & Rory Bubb, N3462

Overall, the event confirmed that older boats equipped with T-foils can still perform impressively. Experience proved critical, and the support from Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club’s crew highlighted their expertise in running an excellent event.

Overall Results:
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