PM Society Regatta
The PM Society Sailing Regatta is rapidly establishing itself as one of the major calendar dates of the year. Four years in, the event has grown from 9 yachts to this year’s field of 33 yachts, more than 250 crew pitting their wits against the Solent and practically every type of weather known to the UK!
Starting the event on the Sunday evening was an outdoor BBQ (kindly supported by Cegedim) at the Royal Air Force Yacht Club at Hamble Marina, which saw approximately 130 of the following day’s ‘crew’ attend and be entertained by the live jazz band. Afterwards, everyone retired to the yachts to prepare for the challenging day ahead (and discuss race tactics...).
The day itself began with a full briefing and well deserved bacon ‘butties’ – by which time the rain had established itself for the morning! Following the safety briefings on-board, the fleet set out for a familiarisation-sail across to Cowes. The lively force 4 sail across the Solent was a great way of ensuring the less experienced sailors had the time to acquaint themselves with the tasks (and language!) of their yachts prior to the afternoon’s racing.
Mooring up at the Cowes Yacht Haven saw a welcome break in the rain and ensured a comparatively dry walk along to the Royal Yacht Squadron for lunch. Lunch at Prince Phillip’s Yacht Club is certainly an experience not to be missed and was followed by a short presentation to Paul Holmes (PM Society) as thanks for his organisation of the day and also good luck for his imminent 2 year sail around the Mediterranean with Wife, child & dog (good luck Paul!)
After a full safety & race briefing, the fleet set off for the afternoon’s racing in the Solent. However by this time, the wind had built to a more demanding force 6. With the wind blowing against the tide, the waves were now as high as the yacht hulls and sailing was becoming a challenge for the experienced sailor. However, with 90% of the crews not having sailed before and upon very careful consideration and liaison with safety officers, the race was aborted (much to the relief of some of the novices!).
The afternoon’s sail the included finding shelter from the force 6 wind in Osbourne Bay before a comparatively gentle sail back across the Solent to Hamble.
Once the fleet was moored up again at Hamble Marina, many took the opportunity to convene again at the Royal Air Force Yacht Club for refreshments and the opportunity to re-live the days events.
The Sailing Regatta is a great way to build strong relationships with your fellow sailors and even though the fleet experienced most of Britain’s weather during the day, a good day was had by all. We look forward to seeing old & new faces again next year and don't let the weather put any newcomers off!
Held on: 18/06/2007