Rooster RS Feva Nationals Qualifying Series at the Plas Heli Welsh National Sailing Academy
by Chrissie Le Petit 27 May 14:08 PDT
23-26 May 2026
RS Feva Nationals Qualifying Series at Plas Heli © Oli King Photography
The first day of our 2026 Nationals burst to life with an electrifying buzz as the boat park became a hive of activity, with eager sailors rigging at the renowned Welsh Sailing Centre, Plas Heli in the town on Pwllheli in the picturesque North Wales.
The vibrant atmosphere followed sailors to the beach and transformed into a breathtaking spectacle, where the sight of sailors launching their boats was a scene not to be missed. Each RS Feva adding to the sight of colourful sails setting sail making there way to the race course.
Thanks to the preparations of our Race Officer Jonathan Milton of the race team. Their efforts ensured a seamless day of racing, with four races completed in both the yellow and blue flights.
Leading the Yellow flight was 8762 Cass Day & Harry O'Callaghan from Gurnard Sailing Club winning every race. Followed by 8639 Rachel Elms and Laura Jubb from Hayling Island Sailing Club in second, and third in was 8600 Phoebe Greenhalgh and Megan Gowers from Port Dinorwic Sailing Club.
The blue flight was led by three family boats. With Chris Webber and Evelyn Webber (7355) claiming first blues. Hot on their tail were brothers Oscar and Rory Davenport (8658) from Bassenthwaite Sailing Club, while Chris and Jack Pickles (1351) from Delph Sailing Club sailed into third place.
Sailors returned to shore, their spirits high with the completion of the racing for day one. With the confirmation of qualifying series completed that meant Gold and Silver flights were confirmed for the final series, the excitement was far from over.
The day wrapped up with sailors heading back to their camping pitches, ready to unwind at a lively gathering of friends and family. The night came to a magical close, bathed in the soft twinkle of fairy lights by the RS van and Centre entrance, creating a scene right out of a fairy tale.
Anticipation buzzed in the air for the next day, with sailors eagerly looking forward to the whimsical fancy dress event. The adventure had only just begun, and the promise of more unforgettable moments lingered in the night air!