Listen & read
The inaugural Hartley Boats Zenith Inland Championship kicks off with a thrilling atmosphere at Blithfield, showcasing 21 entries, including seven local boats. This event is a pivotal moment for the rapidly expanding Zenith class, featuring its largest fleet to date.
Competitors witness the debut of Zeniths 168 and 169, alongside the seasoned sail number 100, just 13 months old. Friday's tuning session, led by Hartley Boats sailmaker Steve Graham, fuels excitement as 11 helms receive expert advice, resulting in numerous "lightbulb moments" and quick rig changes. As evening falls, boats arrive from as far as Berwick-upon-Tweed and Barcelona, but rain dampens the night.
Saturday morning sees 20 vibrant Zeniths ready for a challenging 11:30 start in a tricky 4-10 knot easterly breeze. Richard Instone claims victory in Race 1, followed by Stuart Turnbull and Michael Alexander. Race 2 showcases a nail-biting finish, with home sailor Sam Watson edging out Simon Johnson.
As conditions improve, Mark Hartley bounces back to win Race 3, with Watson and Instone close behind, culminating in a spectacular home-club 1-2-3 finish in the final race. The weekend wraps up with barbecues and sailing tales, marking a memorable championship for all involved.
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