RS Aero UK National Championships and International Open at East Lothian YC - Challenge Cup

Lectures at the RS Aero UK National Championships and International Open at East Lothian © Liam Willis

The warm up day to the RS Aero UK Nationals is the RS Aero Challenge Cup 'All Aeros' contest with the whole fleet starting together on a PY basis.

60 of the 80 RS Aeros entered finished the race held in medium winds with a good mix of each rig spread through the fleet.

Three RS Aero 9s sailed off into the lead with Greg Bartlett taking line honours. A bubble of RS Aero 7s followed with Richard Pye holding a slender lead from Peter Barton, Craig Williamson and Tim Hire all hot on his tail.

Ultimately the 7s prevailed after corrected PY with Richard taking the win from Peter and William Caiger in his RS Aero 5 taking third. Tim Hire was fourth with Greg Bartlett fifth.

Challenge Cup at the RS Aero UK National Championships and International Open at East Lothian - photo © Liam Willis

The Commodores Reception that evening formally welcomed the fleet to East Lothian YC and presented the day's Rooster and Harken awards, with wonderful G&Ts for everyone provided by NB Gin.

The Championship proper starts on Thursday with ten races over four days and a mix of conditions forecast under blue skies and baking hot temperatures.

Challenge Cup Results: