This is the second consecutive year that the UK WASZP National Championships 28th-31st May 2019 have been held at Rutland Sailing Club, and after such a great time in 2018, nobody was disappointed. Class retention is certainly strong as we saw almost everybody who raced last year sail again, and in addition, the fleet increased in size exponentially, and with it the buzz and atmosphere of anticipation. The fact that the sailing level of ability has increased greatly, as well as the numbers, meant this was set to be a fantastic event both on and off the water. Everybody was really excited to see WASZP making the most of the new Hydrofoil and true to form they hugely impressed everyone, the feedback was absolutely fantastic.
Rutland Sailing Club put on a truly great event for their second year running and the tremendous relationships and culture of inclusive community were a testament to the way they run their club and invest in their sailors. From karaoke and camping to bands and beers, it is true to say that over the four days a fantastic time was had by all, and this community spirit of eating and drinking together each evening is something truly valuable, and is something that sets Rutland Club and the WASZP Class apart, and grows stronger year on year.
Race Officer Mike Haynes did a great job, the event ran smoothly from start to finished, helped by a fantastic few days of UK sun throughout the 4 days, the first of which was a warm up day, followed by 3 days of intense racing. 2019 WASZP Games Champion Rory Hunter showed once again why he was crowned the best WASZP sailor in the world by winning the 2019 WASZP Games in Perth, and doesn’t show signs of slowing down as he won the event with a near- clean sweep.
It was also great to have Sam Whaley sailing his second WASZP regatta, not only does he deliver on the water but then goes on to represent and promote the WASZP community through his blogs and online presence – great to see and always fascinating to follow.
See the Hartas Productions official photography Here.
Coming soon – WASZP European Championships
The four-day Nationals have set the tone for the WASZP European Championships coming in just a few short weeks at Malcesine, Lake Garda. It is set to be a huge event, record fleets of over 90 boats are expected and a turn out of many more. If the National Championships were exciting, it was just a taster of the anticipation and excitement as we wait to see what these sailors have to offer as the European Championships approach.
One of the days of the WASZP European Championships we are set to see the famous WASZP Slalom Race, keenly awaited- this event is going to be huge, and Hartas Productions are set to do a live production, it certainly is not one to miss.
