Scorpion National Championship at Penzance Sailing Club - Day 1

Day one of racing at the 2025 Magic Marine Scorpion Nationals, and after much anticipation sailors gathered for the first day of what is to be a historic event of thrills, spills and memories for the 55 strong fleet of dinghies. With boats as colourful as their owners, they painted a spectacular picture across the town of Penzance.

Despite a dull sky and a wet drizzle showering decks of gleaming varnish and polished fiberglass, the competitors launched on time for the practice race which settled the pre race nerves of all.

Scorpion Nationals at Penzance Day 1 - photo © Lee Whitehead / www.photolounge.co.uk

With a moderate breeze settling in, the traditional gate start was used to start the fleet for race one. It was tight at the top, with the fight for 1st turning into a battle of wits with the wind shifting around several times during the race and a heavy chop to contend with.

In the end it was class stalwarts Tom Gillard and Rachel Gray who took race one. Following in second were Ollie Meadowcraft and Rob Gardner. Rounding out the podium was Chris Draper and Alex Hayman.

Scorpion Nationals at Penzance Day 1 - photo © Lee Whitehead / www.photolounge.co.uk

There was a long wait between races while a thick fog set in and the wind did its dance. It cleared just in time for race two to kick off, and this turned out to be a roller coaster of ups and downs, and big wind shifts under a grey sky.

Sailing a blinder again were Gillard and Gray, who established a commanding lead in the difficult conditions. Taking a well deserved second place were Joe Warricker and Andy Service, who led the race for a very healthy portion.

In third place were Draper and Hayman, sailing very consistently to them in contention going into day two.

Scorpion Nationals at Penzance Day 1 - photo © Lee Whitehead / www.photolounge.co.uk

Overnight leaders are Tom Gillard and Rachel Gray, in second are Chris Draper and Alex Hayman, and in third are Ollie Meadowcroft and Rob Gardner.

Welcome drinks and snacks awaited the sailors upon arrival at the slip, and it was with many sighs of relief the fleet retired to the showers and warmth of the Penzance clubhouse.

Results after Day 1: