2021 was still a COVID year and things didn’t get going till May. It was impressive how racing events were run within the safety guidelines, and how things like briefings were moved async and online over video and, comms was enhanced with channels like WhatsApp.

I’d like to say a big thank you to all the clubs who put on events, including my own in Swanage, and the RS Aero class for being so friendly and welcoming. It’s a great fun boat and a great class.

First Home Race of the Year April

This was a special one. We’d been ‘locked down’ in the months before and I think everyone just wanted to get out and start feeling that things were normal again.

Lymington RS Open May

My second ever open and with some pretty windy weather and big chop in the solent, it was a blast. Seeing the front of the boat submerge and nearly pitchpole at one point was memorable.

Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy Aero Two Day Open – May

It was really exciting to race at the sailing location of the 2012 Olympics. A two day event and the best bit was getting out of the harbour. We had great weather and I loved the summer feeling. Definitely a benchmark venue.

Lee on Solent Aero Open – June

A light wind day.

Swanage Regatta – August (home waters)

A home mixed handicap two day regatta with some fruity conditions, F5 gusting 7 on one day.

August Windsurfing

I had a mast problem (top piece jammed hard onto the base of brand new 5 stub) for some weeks in August, and so switched to windsurfing. We got the family doing a bit too. It was fantastic and I’m definitely going to be getting some faster kit and doing it more in 2022.

Junior Training April – July

I was the lead instructor for the Bronzes this year and thanks to a terrific team we got 22 kids started with sailing.

Ringwood Aero Open Sept

First sail on a lake and brilliant fun.

Paignton Single Hander Two Day Open November

Another two-day event, challenging light winds conditions. I do like Paignton’s waters.

Swanage Bay – Regular Sailing December

If the weather allows it, I get out at least once a week at all times of the year.

Another 2021 highlight

A real highlight of 2021 was watching the sailing at the Tokyo Olympics and enjoying seeing Team GB in action. I was on vacation at the time, got up early and soaked it all up.

Plans for 2022

I have a ton of things to improve with my sailing and fitness/strength and can’t wait for the weather to allow me out again to start training. Next year I want to do more racing, a few more events and improve my results and consistency at home and away.

The main event will probably be the RS Aero nationals or the RS Games. Multi-day events are really hard work and I’ll need to work up to them.

And… do as much sailing, SUPing, kayaking, swimming and windsurfing with the family as possible. Sounds like a plan. 🙂