Listen & read
Glorious conditions mark the start of the 2026 Graduate Nationals at Chichester Yacht Club, setting the stage for an intense competition. This event showcases how racing strategies evolve in response to dynamic weather and tidal conditions.
The weekend kicks off with light winds, allowing for a practice race led by Ric Lewis and Sandra Jordan, while John and Jamie Clementson struggle initially. As conditions improve, Championship Race 1 sees local favorites Catherine Helmsley and Charlotte Tangye take an early lead, but it's defending champions Fresh Abendstern and Ross Southwell who clinch the first race victory, with the Clementsons and Rory Odell & Isaac Marsh following closely behind.
Race 2 sees a more consistent wind with an outgoing tide, leading to multiple lead changes. The Clementsons ultimately take the win again, tying them on points with Abendstern and Southwell overnight.
Day two features a significant wind shift from the South/Southwest, challenging competitors with unpredictable shifts. Race 3 unfolds with a triangle/sausage course, where Rory Odell and Isaac Marsh emerge victorious, followed by Brendan Lynch and Rachel Scarf, with Fresh and Ross finishing in third.
As the competition heats up, the stage is set for an exhilarating conclusion to the championship.
Comments (0)