Empower Women Sailors: Join the Merlin Rocket Class Today!
Women Sailors – the Merlin Rocket Class Needs You
14-15 September 2024
The Merlin Rocket Class is known for its technical development and the high standard of its sailors. The Merlin Rocket Class Association is set to host its second Women’s Championships at Parkstone Yacht Club on the weekend of September 14-15, 2024, and all competent female helms are invited to join.
Are you a skilled female helm accustomed to fleet racing who is searching for a new challenge? If so, you are in the right place.
September’s event promises to be extraordinary, showcasing an all-female race team and all female helms. This event is a unique opportunity, conceived and run by women, creating a space where women can sail together in a collaborative environment.
The idea of hosting the 2024 Women’s Championship was met with overwhelming support from the PYC Sailing Committee, especially from Christina Moncur, Parkstone’s first Female Flag Officer in 22 years. Christina eagerly volunteered to lead the all-female race team.
Christina runs an accountancy practice focused on charity clients and is actively involved in offshore racing, competing in various classes like XOD and Flying Fifteen. Her extensive sailing experience began at age seven when she took a beginner’s course, and she has since excelled in various aspects of sail racing.
Christina views her role in running the MR Women’s Championships as a wonderful chance to highlight women’s capabilities in racing sailing. All five members of her committee boat team are fully equipped to run the day’s events.
The event aligns perfectly with the philosophy at Parkstone YC, where the ladies’ fleet has significantly grown and is eager to participate. A national event of this type beautifully merges grassroots and cutting-edge sailing.
Entry forms are coming in, and the Merlin Rocket Class has crews looking for helms—could that helm be you?
The event kicks off on Saturday, September 14, with a day dedicated to training. Participants will have the opportunity to learn from National Champion helms and crews as they familiarize themselves with the boats.
That evening, attendees will enjoy a meal and an inspiring talk by Sarah Ayton OBE.
Racing will commence on Sunday, culminating in the crowning of the Women’s Champion 2024 after a thrilling day of competition in Poole Bay.
This occasion is not merely a sales pitch for joining the fleet; rather, it’s an inviting opportunity to experience the Merlin Rocket class, meet new people, and relish one of the best two-handed dinghies around. And who knows? You might even go home with exciting prizes, including lifejackets, gin, or other goodies!
For more information, please get in touch via sailing@merlinrocket.co.uk.
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.