Craftinsure Osprey UK National Championship 2023 at Poole Yacht Club

Craftinsure Osprey UK National Championship at Poole Yacht Club – Days 1 & 2

5-8 September 2024

Day 1 of the 45-boat Osprey Nationals, hosted by Poole Yacht Club, kicked off with heavy rain and rigging.

By the time race one started, the rain continued. The first races took place in the harbour, and competitors quickly recognized that starting at the pin end and making an early tack closely followed by targeting the lay line could provide a significant advantage. Ben McGrane and James Ross in 1340 ‘Beastly Whizzer’ were the first to round the windward mark, engaging in a solid battle until Matt Rainback and Phil Angrave in 1352 ‘String Driven Thing’ overtook at the weather mark amidst the rain.

Matt Burge and Vyv Townend in 1353 ‘Callisto’ put in a strong effort and secured third place by the finish line, despite the ongoing rainfall.

For race two, heavy rain continued with increasing breeze. Once again, Ben and James, along with Matt and Vyv, took the pin. The latter duo tacked and navigated to the right, entering the favoured tide. Although they initially pulled ahead in the rain, Matt and Phil gradually caught up, displaying speed across all points of sail. Visibility was poor, but Phil Meakins and Richard Anderton in 1347 ‘Pipe and Slippers’ managed to claim third until Ben and James advanced as the wind lightened but the rain persisted.

Competitors returned to the shore in heavy rain, packed up, and found refuge at the bar, all while enduring the wet conditions. Ultimately, spirits remained high on what is likely to be remembered as “Rainy Thursday” for years to come.

The visibility challenges and cold weather made for a memorable opening day. At the end of day one, reigning National Champions Matt and Phil were leading the pack with two first-place finishes. The second and third places were separated by the results of the last race.

Day two saw racing abandoned by 1:00 PM on Friday due to poor wind conditions forecasted. It was a prudent decision, and some competitors opted to explore Poole for coffee, with one order being “a green ‘supa’ food smoothie.”

The top four teams will conduct a Q&A session after the Class AGM on Friday evening, offering racing tips and boat setup advice.

The Class gratefully acknowledges support from Craftinsure, Hartley Boats, Allen Brothers, Clamcleat, Fernhurst Books, Robline, and Seasure.

Results after Day 2: