Movers and shakers

Dave Spragg Previews the International 14 Prince of Wales Week

The International 14 class has been enjoying a vintage year in 2005. With the World Championships in Auckland and the Europeans in Travemuende already settled, the best may be yet to come, and this weekend marks the start of the 73rd POW Week in Mounts Bay, Cornwall.

Amongst the favourites this year are Alistair Richardson and Dan Johnson, just back from a decisive victory in the Europeans. But don't discount James Fawcett and Dave Dobrejivic; possibly the best prepared team for the NZ Worlds where they placed third, they will be on the pace and unlikely to make mistakes. They couldn't make it to Travemuende, but have a track record for winning the races that count. Mike Lennon and John McKenna were hotly tipped for the Worlds but couldn't make it due to work commitments; they've been cleaning up on the domestic circuit this Summer, and could be the team to give the European champs a run for their money.

In keeping with the traditions of the week, the national championship will be decided in just one race - the epic POW race - scheduled for Tuesday. The trophy was donated in 1927 by the Prince of Wales (who went on to become King Edward and then famously abdicated). The series is hotly contended, but there can only be one champion, and this is one race which favours risk-takers. Last year Andy FitzGerald and Simon Marks dominated the week but failed to take the one race they really wanted. They still have blistering pace and will be back to finish the job, but defending champion Andy Partington, this year sailing with his son Tom, will be one of at least ten boats with a realistic chance of stopping him. Archie Massey placed 2nd in this years Europeans and will be making a guest appearance in the front of Andy Penman's boat. Penman has never finished better than second in the POW race, but if these guys can keep the boat upright they may just have what it takes to surprise the established teams.