PM Society Sailing Regatta 2008

Boats on the horizon

The PM Society Sailing Regatta is rapidly establishing itself as one of the major calendar dates of the year. Now five years in, the event has grown from 9 yachts to this year's field of 28 yachts, more than 250 crew pitting their wits against the Solent and each other in yet another wonderful day out on the water! Waves

Starting the event on the Sunday evening was an outdoor BBQ (kindly supported by Talentmark) at the Royal Air Force Yacht Club in Hamble Marina, which saw approximately 100 of the following day's 'crew' attend and be entertained by the live 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 weather was clearly going to be kind to us! Following the safety briefings on-board, the fleet set out for a familiarisation-sail across to Cowes. The gentle force 2 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 was followed by a brief walk along Cowes High Street to the historic Royal Yacht Squadron for lunch. Lunch at Prince Phillip's Yacht Club is certainly an experience not to be missed and even our professional Cowes-based skippers admitted that they had never had the opportunity of visiting 'The Squadron'.

After a full safety and race briefing, the fleet set off for the afternoon's racing in the Solent. The race was started with the Royal Yacht Squadron's race cannon (the same one which starts the 'Round the Island Race') and after a degree of jostling for position on the line, all 28 yachts headed off on the first up-wind leg.

Competing against other similar yachts meant very close racing where race planning, tactics and sail-trimming would be key. The teamwork on board the yachts was great to see and the addition this year of banners along the side of the yachts showing the host company's name meant everyone knew who they were racing against!

Once the fleet was moored up again at Hamble Marina, the group convened again at the Royal Air Force Yacht Club for refreshments and the Awards. This year, the new 'Resilience Award (sponsored by Non-Stop Healthcare) went to MJL Advertising for running aground at Cowes whilst still managing to finish in the top 10! Whilst the coveted PM Society Cup went to 3Rock – who showed great teamwork and pulled out a convincing lead from the start.

The Sailing Regatta is a great way to build strong relationships with your fellow sailors and a good day was had by all. We look forward to seeing old and new faces again next year!