Youth sailors in strong showing at local regatta

(CISA): Last weekend’s regatta at the Reef Resort was another huge success enjoyed by a record number of sailors. Conditions were perfect and once again the setting with the reef as a backdrop was stunningly beautiful.This regatta has now been running for seven years. It was founded to commemorate the legendary Captain Leroy Watson of East End and has been sponsored throughout by Donald McLean from Health Care Pharmacy. From small beginnings it has steadily grown and this year 37 sailors took part. In the Laser class Rob Jackson blew away Coach Raph taking bullets in all seven races.

Raph did take second with Tomeaka McTaggart in third place and top Radial. This was also a breakthrough regatta for the youth Laser sailors who challenged well against the seniors. Thomas Bishop sailed consistently well to fourth place closely followed by Jesse Jackson in fifth. Shane McDermott also sailed well and but for two early starts could have been challenging for fourth.

In the Optimist class Pablo Bertran and Allena Rankine battled it out for top honours with Pablo taking five of the seven races.In the Optimist Green fleet Will Jackson ran out the winner.

In the Pico double handed division Ben Woodford and Trey Milgate were convincing winners with Will Roberts & Tyler Lawson in second. Sam Bailey & Jade Wilkinson took third place.

Club Manager Rick Caley explained “The event has become a highlight on the racing calendar as families can race together and enjoy a weekend staycation at the Reef Resort who host the regatta. This was especially born out this year where father and son team, Will and Rob Jackson, were both trophy winners”.

Coach Raph was thrilled with the youth racers. “It’s a huge undertaking to transport so many boats out to East End and a lot of work, but the conditions out here are unique and gives everyone a chance to race under different conditions to those back on North Sound. We are indebted to the many volunteers who help out especially Race Officer Peta Adams, Linda Locke at the Reef Resort and Compass Marine who help transport the boats”.

The Cayman Islands Sailing Club runs dinghy racing every first Sunday of the month. If you would like to take part contact admin@sailing.ky