Contessa 32 Weekend Regatta: Cowes to Poole and Back
Contessa 32 Cowes-Poole-Cowes Weekend
31 August – 1 September 2024
Contessa 32 sailors at Poole Quay Boat Haven © Martin Collen
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A fresh Easterly breeze sent the strong fleet quickly down the Western Solent, making for an exciting race experience.
Corafin showcased early speed while Jemmana and Andaxi fought for position. Alice Butcher returned with Panache, sailing single-handedly and demonstrating remarkable speed against her competitors.
At Hurst, the fleet divided their routes, with Andaxi and Jemmana opting for the northern course, while Corafin and others pursued a more direct path through the Needles Channel.
As they approached the finish, it became apparent that the outcome would be a nail-biter. Would Andaxi edge out Jemmana? Could Carinosa fend off Corafin’s last-minute push?
In a stunning finish, Carinosa crossed the line first for her maiden victory, closely followed by a group of four boats finishing within mere feet of each other. Even after twenty-nine miles of racing, Panache was in close contention, crossing the finish ahead of Blanco, Muscadet de Havelet, Starstreak, and Coric who finished within three minutes of each other.
This marked the inaugural visit for the event to the Poole Quay Boat Haven. The marina team happily judged the Cowes-Poole-Cowes Bake Off aboard Jemmana. Crafty cake entries were presented, with Andaxi’s chocolate creation taking the prize.
The festivities continued with a lively pontoon party hosted by Muscadet, followed by an enjoyable dinner at the Oriel Restaurant on Poole Quay.
After a spirited night, sailors faced lighter winds and a shorter course. Racing commenced in a building northerly breeze, which shifted unpredictably. As kites went up and down, some teams managed to find breezy conditions, while others encountered frustrating holes.
With the tide turning foul around Hengisbury Head, many boats opted to retire after drifting for several hours, though Andaxi, Jemmana, and Carinosa maintained a small lead. Ultimately, Carinosa snuck past Andaxi in the final stretch, winning by a boat length, while Starstreak managed to catch the favorable wind and cross the finish line shortly after.
Overall, the weekend was a remarkable combination of competitive racing, delightful baking, and social gatherings that everyone cherished.
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.