Race 1 take Excel race

Saskia Clark reports on last week's Berkeley Marine Exhibitors Challenge

It was time for the Guinness Stand banter to stop and let the performances on the water do the talking.

Wednesday 12 January dawned with bright sunshine and blustery winds and six teams entered into the inaugural Berkeley Marine Exhibitors Challenge. A quick glance through the entry list revealed an impressive line up, including Olympians, GBR Challenge sailors and National, European and World Champions past and present.

The race management team from the Royal Thames got racing underway in the Berkeley Marine First Class 8s. A docksidestart line and P course around the Dockprovided ample opportunity for hoisting, dropping and drama all viewed by the spectators from the Novotel balcony



The Race1 Team stamped their authority on the event from the start with 3 straight bullets. Race 3 of 5 finally saw the Gul/Purple Team get their act together but it was too little too late. Race 1 had already sailed away with the title and a consistent series by Team Dolphin Sails put them firmly in second with Team Gul/Purple in 3rd. A ‘spectacular’ final race by the Victor Boats team saw them slip down the rankings into 4th place, as a crash and broken mast brought them grinding to a halt. The Royal Navy and Sailing Holidays Teams had a combination of experience and cruising sailors so opted against using spinnakers, finishing in 5th and 6th place respectively.

A few hours out of the Boat Show, a bit of drama and a blast around in some fantastic boats ensured that everyone went back into the show refreshed and happy.

To get involved with next years Exhibitors Challenge ring now to book your place!

2005 Results:
1st Race 1
2nd Team Dolphin Sails
3rd Team Gul/ Purple
4th Victor Boats
5th Royal Navy
6th Sailing Holidays