2021 Streaker Nationals at Staunton Harold Sailing Club rescheduled
by Neil Firth 5 Jul 2021 04:24 NZST
2-4 July 2021
After a second frustrating day at Staunton Harold, the Streaker Class abandoned its National Championships and took up the host club's generous offer to re-run the event in October.
Day two started with heavy rain and no wind, but with forecasts predicting that the breeze would fill in as the rain cleared. The Race Officer gave the forecast every opportunity to materialise and released the 50-strong fleet, but to no avail as the sailors ghosted back to the shore for lunch.
Over lunch the aficionados of Class and Club could be seen in a socially distanced huddle, and so the speculation began. With little prospect of racing in the afternoon - and with uncertainty over the forecast for Sunday - the announcement finally came; the Noble Marine Streaker Nationals would be abandoned for the weekend to be replaced with a two-day event at Staunton Harold on 2-3 October 2021.
The obvious disappointment was tempered by relief, not least for Tom Gillard and Arran Holman who dashed off early to make the start of Salcombe Merlin Week. Even the weather breathed a huge sigh of relief, providing enough breeze for many to take to the water for some gentle informal racing. Sailors and their hosts then retired to the club terrace for a sociable Mexican evening and live football.
Many thanks go to all the volunteers at Staunton Harold - ashore and afloat - for all their hard work and excellent hospitality, and for agreeing to do it all again in October. Despite the lack of racing, everyone enjoyed a relaxing summer break in a picturesque setting, catching up with friends, many of whom they hadn't seen for a long time.
See you again in October!