Noble Marine RS400 Nationals 2026 at Hayling Island Sailing Club - Day 3

An earlier start for day 3 of the RS400 Nationals. With 4 races planned, the fleet were excited to get out into the forecasted building breeze.

Race one got under way without a general recall - a seemingly rare occurrence this week. In about 10-12 knots. Sam Whaley secured the win with Edd Whitehead and Ben Whaley in second.

Noble Marine RS400 Nationals 2026 - Day 3 - photo © Phil Jackson / Digital Sailing

Race two - after having 5 poor starts, we decided to start where everyone else didn't. Not committing as much as the boat starting on port and making the first mark in the top 3! Sam being consistent getting the win again with Simon Potts this time in second, sadly his crew, Richard Cornes was later injured - we wish him a speedy recovery.

Noble Marine RS400 Nationals 2026 - Day 3 - photo © Phil Jackson / Digital Sailing

Race three - several boats had to sit this one out after a black flag massacre. Sam Knight and Chris Bownes did well by leading the charge, going right downwind and creating a convincing win.

Race four - Our best race this series, probably due to fact lots of boats capsized and retired. With the wind reaching 20-24 knots, the waves caused plenty of issues at the windward mark when certain boats were hoisting their spinnakers. The leeward gate was as busy as ever, we were in a privileged position to come in on the starboard lay line, hearing the screams of protest as port boats forgot they were in the wrong.

Noble Marine RS400 Nationals 2026 - Day 3 - photo © Phil Jackson / Digital Sailing

Big well done to Oscar Davenport competing today on his 14th birthday, him and his dad had a great day with 2 top 20 results! A shout out also to Stefano Marangio, helming his first Nationals at just 13! We have 8 other youths in the fleet this week, but these tow certainly lower the average age!

After being treated to hot sausage rolls on the slipway, which even the most health-conscious could not resist, after those demanding 4 races, the likes of Sam Knight, Tom Halhead and others showed their dedication to the fleet by spending over an hour in the dinghy park running a tech session for the less experienced, which generated a lot of debate amongst those at the front too.

Noble Marine RS400 Nationals 2026 - Day 3 - photo © Phil Jackson / Digital Sailing

With two discards in play now, there's only 9 points between the top 4 (results subject to protest). It really is all to play for on day 4, the final day of this exciting Championship.

A big thank you to the safety teams and the race committee, who delivered another great day's racing in challenging conditions. A busy day for all, it's hugely appreciated by all the competitors.

Results after Day 3: