Blackwater Sailing Club

Big congrats to our Ex-Cadets Matty and Nick who came 2nd at the Wayfarer Nationals in Grafham this weekend. They won a lot of silverware: 2nd overall, newcomers, first lady crew and a race win.

Our Open Day was a tremendous success, attracting more than 250 visitors to the Club for a fantastic day of sailing, sunshine, and family fun. With warm weather and excellent conditions on the water, guests enjoyed a memorable introduction to the Club and the wide range of activities on offer.

Throughout the day, an impressive 190 test sails took place on the lake, giving visitors the opportunity to experience the excitement and enjoyment of sailing first-hand. In addition to the dinghy sailing sessions, visitors were also able to enjoy trips on the river aboard Club’s cruisers and RIBs, which proved popular with guests of all ages.

The event also provided a major boost for the Club, with over 40 new members joining on the day and further applications expected in the coming weeks.

The success of the Open Day was made possible by the efforts of Club members who volunteered and worked tirelessly to create such a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere both on and off the water. The Club would like to extend its sincere thanks to everyone involved in organising this important event — those who took visitors on sailing trips and tours, the membership and galley teams, and the many other helpers whose hard work ensured the day ran so smoothly.

We look forward to welcoming many new faces to the Club in the near future.

If you missed our Open Day and are interested in joining you can arrange a visit by emailing [email protected]

Photos Zoë Nelson

Huge congratulations to our Blackwater Sailing Club cadets who represented the club at the prestigious RYA Eric Twiname Junior Championships at Rutland Water!
With nearly 300 of the UK’s top young sailors competing, our cadets delivered outstanding performances — helping the East Region secure both Championship trophies!
A special shoutout to Callum Marshall for winning the ILCA 4 title after an incredible series with five race wins!
Well done also to Matthew Marshall, Leonie Fairhead and Amelie Fairhead for their fantastic efforts and sportsmanship throughout the regatta.
Proud moments for BSC and our thriving cadet programme!

Two Opens and a Grand Prix!

A very busy weekend at the club with two open meetings for Snipes and Wayfarers, and the third of our Grand Prix (“GP”) series events: the Britannia trophy for General Handicap and Short course; and the Calamity Cup for Sprites. We had an excellent turnout for all three events, and after a shaky start were lucky to get a reasonable breeze fill in on both days, albeit quite a shifty one.

Huge thanks to David Evans, Richard Marshall and their armada of helpers for organising the open meetings which were very well attended; and congrats to our BSC prize winners: Graham Hoy/Rob Haigh (2nd overall in the Wayfarers), Clemency Evans (1st lady Wayfarer helm), and BSC Cadet Jess Welch (normally seen on a Laser 4.7, finishing as 3rd place crew in the Snipes).

For the four races of the Britannia trophy Julie Nelson took the short course prize in her Mirror, whilst Laser sailor Rory Munro took the win in the general handicap. In the Sprites Marcus Gallo and Gill Callander were the victors in the Calamity Cup.

After the first three GP events Charlie Steward leads the way with an impressive 149 out of 150 possible points, closely followed by Julie Nelson on 148 points, with Jonny Garlick ten points behind in third place. Although Charlie scored all his points in a Fireball albeit with four (!) different crews, Julie achieved hers sailing both a Laser and a Mirror in the short course fleet.

Rob Carver

Photos: Zoë Nelson

Come to our Open Day this Saturday 9th May 2-6 pm. Visit our great club and find out all there is on offer for our members. From RYA training for children and adults, to an active club racing program and a thriving social scene. Saling yachts enjoy trips in company in the East Coast and dinghies race or just sail for fun throughout the year.

This Saturday you have a chance to try sailing — we’re welcoming new members of all ages and experience levels.

On the day:

Members will take visitors on free test sails on the lake
River trips on sailing yachts, RIBs, and other boats
Meet current members and find out what the club offers
Bar open all day

Whether you’re keen to learn, get back into sailing, or just enjoy time by the water, there’s a place for you here.

Come and see how you can get involved—and maybe start your sailing journey with us!

Photos © Zoë Nelson, Anna Lau, Shark Theory Media