PM Society Sailing Regatta 2011

Force 5 winds see fast and exciting sailing with a surprise result

The forecast looked grim; force 5-6 winds, cloud and rain. It didn't stop over 80 keen souls turning up for what turned out to be a fantastic day's sailing in the Solent.

Over half of the crew came down the night before for a BBQ at the Royal Air Force Yacht Club on the Hamble.  Steaks, sea bass, salmon and bangers kept everyone quite for a while before everyone descended onto one of the yachts for after dinner drinks.  Our thanks to Talentmark for sponsoring the meal again this year.

Regatta day started with dark clouds and the threat of rain and blustery winds. One thing was for sure: we were going to have some interesting sailing.

Yachts departed Hamble on route to Cowes on the Isle of Wight.  Professional skippers prepared their crews for the battle ahead.  By the time crews arrived at Cowes everyone knew the ropes, their port from starboard and the difference between a tack and gybe.

Glorious sunshine greeted us on arrival at the Royal Yacht Squadron in Cowes.  Spirits lifted with a glass of Pimms and the sight of the lobster and salmon buffet lunch served like only the Squadron know how.  It was, as usual, a lunch to remember along with the stunning view over the Solent.

Little white caps on waves told us that this year's regatta was going to be exciting.  Eleven 37ft yachts jostled on the start line for position as the Squadron's cannons fired to mark the start of the race.

Unlike last year this year's racing was fast and furious with a PM Society yacht taking the lead. Fresh winds remained throughout the race with some yachts topping 10 knots speed through the water!  It was exciting enough for the experienced sailors and must have been a real challenge for the novices onboard.

For the first time since its inception eight years ago a PM Society yacht won the race!  Well done to the crew who included members from Intrapharm, Bloom Health, Neovoca as well as PM Society.

Held on: 13/06/2011