News - 21/09/20

It was heartening to see the Cowes Spring Classics regatta, rescheduled from its original May date due to the Coronavirus pandemic, take place over the weekend of 4th-6th September. 

The regatta for classic yachts was sailed in picture perfect conditions, with sunny skies and a good sailing breeze. Excellent race management by Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club ensured the 21 boats entered had a great time on the water, while socially distanced onshore events at Cowes Harbour Commission’s Shepards Marina contributed to the relaxed atmosphere. 

Jock Rafferty, Marine Services Manager at Shepards Marina said: “Hosting the Cowes Spring Classics was, for all involved, a really positive way to end what has been a challenging season due to COVID-19. The regatta was the only sailing event to be held at Shepards this year, but our team worked closely with the event organisers to ensure everyone was safe and that all the plans put in place worked well to deliver a successful event.

“We had certainly missed seeing sailors relaxing and sitting in the sun after a hard day’s sailing, enjoying a drink and good music at The Sugar Store. Overall, it was a fantastic event with a great atmosphere, and we are already looking forward to next year.”

Sandy Fielding’s Spirit yacht Strega won the Modern Classics class, Sue and David Pennison’s Golant Gaffer Satellite won the class for gaff rigged yachts. The class for larger Bermudan yachts was won by Michael Briggs’ 1904 Fife Rater Mikado. The winner of the class for smaller Bermudan yachts, and the regatta overall was Chris and Victoria Preston’s recently acquired 1924 West Solent One Design Suvretta. The Sprit of the Regatta Award was presented to Stephen Brookson and his SCOD Firecracker.

Co-organiser, Martin Nott commented: “We were delighted to be able to hold the regatta, albeit at a later date, and it wouldn’t have been possible without the support and enthusiasm of our sponsors, owners, crew and all our suppliers who helped make it happen. We’re looking forward to planning next year’s regatta, which will be held on 14th-16th May 2021.”

For further information, please see the event website: cowesspringclassics.com

Photo: Chris Brown Photography