Despite the arrival of Storm Amy, the NSSA Singlehanded Team Racing event went ahead this weekend, hosted by the Worcestershire Youth Sailing Association at Upton Warren. A total of 22 teams participated in the event, which featured the new KSail double race Swiss League format.

Amy’s impact was felt immediately, as the challenging conditions on Saturday morning proved too much for many sailors. After five races, competitors were temporarily pulled off the water and took part in coaching sessions led by the Umpires while waiting for conditions to improve. Racing resumed around 2:30 pm, allowing approximately twenty races to be completed by the end of the day.

Sunday brought much calmer conditions, with a further ninety races sailed - most competitors carrying two reefs in their Topper mainsails to manage the stronger winds. After a total of 110 races and several re-sails, Stage Two began with semi-finals and finals.

The semi-finals featured three teams from North East and Yorkshire Youth Sailing Association (NEYYSA) and the Rutland Rebels. NEYYSA Top Hats defeated NEYYSA Wear 2-0, while Rutland Rebels beat MEYYSA Nidd 2-1 to secure their places in the final.

In a tense and closely contested final, the Rutland Rebels team of Luke, Oli, and Jude emerged victorious with a 2-0 win over the NEYYSA Top Hats.

Other prizes were also awarded, highlighting outstanding performances across the event. NEYYSA claimed the Lancaster Silver Jubilee Plate for the most improved team and the Angus Wesley Trophy for the best under-16 team. Meanwhile, the Plymouth Trophy for the best under-12 team was awarded to Worcestershire.

Despite challenging weather, the event was a resounding success, showcasing the determination, skill, and resilience of young sailors across the country.