Chipstead Sailing Club Hosts Thrilling Firefly Open Regatta
Firefly Open at Chipstead Sailing Club
1 September 2024
The Firefly Open 2024 at Chipstead Sailing Club delivered thrilling and competitive sailing, complemented by beautiful weather. Not bad for the first day of September.
The event featured four exciting races, each presenting unique challenges for the participants. Competitors navigated through shifty winds and quick-fire roll tacking while skillfully avoiding mud banks and other boats competing in their own Open event. The wind consistently blew at force three, contrary to the usual direction according to local sailors. The long start line created a dilemma between benefiting from the bias and starting in the trees, where the wind was minimal. The racing was intense, characterized by many position changes throughout the races.
Home sailors showcased their skills in an exciting battle, with Andy and Kieran Morse coming out on top in several breathtaking finishes. Lucy Boreham and Rachel Crebbin secured a podium spot, finishing third overall thanks to a countback, just ahead of Sophia and Dom Johnson. Notably, Sophia claimed the youth helm prize despite having dad Dom as her crew. The Pank father-son duo, Jono and Freddie, donned matching outfits and finished in second place. The inaugural pairing of Nigel Wakefield and Jo Mason clinched victory along with the coveted Walter Smith Trophy, much to Jo’s delight.
After the races, participants enjoyed a refreshing dip in the lake to cool off. As always, Chipstead Sailing Club provided a fantastic tea for competitors to refuel.
The organisers excelled in ensuring a smooth event, with efficient race management and clear communication. Support staff and volunteers played a crucial role in creating a memorable experience for all sailors. Overall, the Firefly Open 2024 at Chipstead Sailing Club was a fantastic celebration of the spirit of Firefly sailing and competitive racing.
Overall Results:
| Pos | Sail No | Helm | Crew | Club | R1 | R2 | R3 | R4 | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 3007 | Nigel Wakefield | Jo Mason | Netley SC | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 |
| 2nd | 4400 | Jono Pank | Freddie Pank | Imperial Poona YC | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 6 |
| 3rd | 3739 | Lucy Boreham | Rachel Crebbin | Chichester YC | 4 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 10 |
| 4th | 3154 | Sophia Johnson | Dom Johnson | Downs SC | 3 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 10 |
| 5th | 2486 | Andy Morse | Kieran Morse | Chipstead SC | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 15 |
| 6th | 2166 | Neil Banks | Toby Richardson | Chipstead SC | 6 | 6 | 6 | DNC | 18 |
| 7th | 2816 | David Shewan | Alice Shewan | Chipstead SC | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 21 |
| 8th | 2095 | Peter Lanham | Wendy Seaton | Chipstead SC | 7 | 7 | 8 | DNC | 22 |
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.