Craftinsure Nationals #5 @ Carsington SC

Carsington SC is the host for the 5th 2008 Craftinsure Topper National Event. It takes place over the weekend of Saturday the 19th, and Sunday the 20th of October, and it closes the 2008 National Series.

• Sailracer Entry for the event


• Online Entry
• Event Documents
• Standard Sailing Instructions
• Notice of Race

Training @ Nantwich & Borders SC

On Saturday the 13th of September, there is an Open Trainig session at Nantwich & Borders SC. Ths session is particularly important for those prospetive Squad hopefulls for the 2008 - 2009 squads.

Craftinsure Nationals #4 @ Pwllheli SC

Pwllheli SC is the host for the 4th 2008 Craftinsure Topper National Event. It takes place over the weekend of Saturday the 6th, and Sunday the 7th of September.

• Sailracer Entry for the event


• Online Entry
• Event Documents
• Standard Sailing Instructions
• Notice of Race

Zone Championships 2008

RYA West Zone Championships 2008

RYA West Zone Squad Selection Policy - 2008.

Indicator Events:

• 13th September
  • Open Training @ Nantwich & Borders SC
• 20th September
  • Selection Event @ Leigh & Lowton SC
• 27th & 28th September
  • RYA West Zone Championships @ Blithfield SC

Blithfield information

• Blithfield Reservoir
  Waters Lane
  Abbots Bromley
  Rugeley
  Staffordshire
  WS15 3DU



• 01283 840464


• www.blithfield.org.uk


• sailing@blithfield.org.uk

If you are arriving Friday evening you must arrange this in advance with Jon Moore - (01785 819729 after 19.00)
If you wish to buy tickets for the Hog Roast on saturday evening (£8 head) contact bsc08zonesmeal@hotmail.co.uk.
You must reserve these by 22nd September

Additional Blithfield Information.....

Topper 6 Hour Race @ Leigh & Lowton

August Bank Holiday Monday, (the 25th), is the data for the Leigh & Lowton Topper 6 Hour Race, and Fun Day.

To quote the poster for the event:

Race around Pennington Flash for 6 hours, a change of crew will be allowed . Teams of 3 Sailors recommended, but there will be no restrictions on the number or age of helms . Possible OAP concessions . Open to visiting teams - own boat required . Galley open for refreshments . Prizes awarded at the discretion of the OD . Entry fee £10 per team Entry required prior to the event . Contact Tim Yeates for details - 07798 913176

Topper Nationals @ Paignton SC

Down to Devon this weekend, to Paignton Sailing Club, for the 2008 Topper Nationals sponsored by Magic Marine.

Paignton SC is just under 300 miles from Southport and is expected to take about 5 hours, yes 5 hours to get there, (with a following wind and no traffic jams). This means a long journey on the Friday night or a very early start on the Saturday morning.

Paignton Harbour....
When the tide is out....
The seafront....

Sailing Club locations and information is :

Paignton Sailing Club South Quay The Harbour Paignton Devon TQ4 6DT - For the GPS enables drivers.... UK 01803 556184 01803 525817 Web site: www.paigntonsailingclub.com

The picture above shows Paignton Green

NOTE: Most major championships are held on Paignton Green at the end of the seafront, in which case you should offload your boat there.
Usually there will be a 'beach marshall' from the Club to guide you.
If you arrive the evening before, then there will probably be someone at the Club.

The following has been published and is available for download:

• Standard Sailing Instructions


• Notice of Race


• Supplementary Sailing Instructions


• Course Card


• Pre-Event Information

To date there are 261 sailors registered for the Main Fleet, with 2 signed up for the Regatta Fleet.

Paingnton SC have links to seven, yes seven webcams of the area and they can be accessed here, (they are best viewed at 1024 x 768 pixels in ie7 (Internet Explorer 7, for those that deal on old money....))

• Paignton Harbour


• Torquay Harbour


• Plymouth


• Exmouth


• Corbyn Head


• Livermead Cliff


• Livermead House

Tide Times for the area are available from the Admiralty "EasyTide" website.

Weather forecasts for the area are available from WindGuru - as usual....

....and finally.... A safe journey to everyone travelling to the event, hope the weather is kind to sailors, and safety crews alike. Here's to a great Magic Marine Topper National of 2008.

Y&Y Day 1&2 Report
Y&Y Day 3&4 Report
Championship Report
and
Results.

Gul Topper Worlds @ Tralee Bay SC

Tralee Bay Sailing Club, in Ireland, plays host to the 2008 Gul Topper World Championships, from July 19th to 25th 2008.

Tralee Bay Sailing Club (TBSC) situated in Fenit, Co. Kerry was founded in 1956 by a group of local enthusiasts. From rudimentary beginnings the Club has grown and now boasts a vibrant and expanding membership together with a clubhouse and a sailing school.

The setting of the Clubhouse overlooking Tralee Bay near Fenit Harbour provides panoramic views of Tralee Bay from Blennerville Windmill to the Marahees and westward to Bandon Point.

It is the combination of this spectacular backdrop together with the protected inshore waters of Tralee Bay, which provides a tremendous venue for competitive sailing events such as National Championships and WIORA. To the seaward of Tralee Bay more vigorous conditions prevail - south to Dingle and West Cork and north to the Shannon Estuary and Galway.

In addition to the TBSC clubhouse, with changing rooms, showers, kitchen, storage and licensed bar, the adjacent Fenit Harbour provides a sheltered 110 berth marina with associated facilities.

Cruiser racing takes place from March to October on Tuesday and Thursday evenings with a number of Sunday races. Dinghy racing is on Sundays during March, April, September, October, November and on Wednesdays and Saturdays from May to August inclusive.

Information provided by the club website includes:

• Notice of Race



• Sailing Instructions



• Online Booking Form



• Map of the Location



• Medical Notification Form



• Parental Consent Form



• Voulenteer Help Form



• List of Confirmed Entries

Coastal Reports for the event can be found Online at the Irish Meteorological Services Site.

Weather forecast for Banana Strand from WindGuru is also available.

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Report and Gold Fleet Results, Silver Fleet Results.

Craftinsure Nationals #3 @ Oxford SC

Saturday and Sunday the 12th and 13th of July is the date for the third 2008 Craftinsure Nationwide event on the Topper circuit.

It is hosted by Oxford Sailing Club, on Farmoor Reservoir.

From Oxford SC Web Site:

Whether you're a newcomer looking to try watersports or a seasoned pro looking for a new club, you'll hopefully find all the information you need here. For club members, there are pages dedicated to racing, events, duties and the clubhouse. For beginners, there is detailed info on how to get into watersports, what training courses are on offer, and how to progress. Click here to find where we are located.

We hope you enjoy looking through our new site and look forward to seeing you on the water this year!

We are hosting one of our biggest events ever, on 12 and 13 July. The Nationwide series is the premier Topper event and up to 200 boats are expected. This does mean all other windsurfing and sailing activities that weekend will be on Farmoor 1 (the smaller lake) including club racing on the Sunday, which will be part of the Open Series. Sorry about that, but come along and watch anyway. The galley will be open both days.

All OSC Topper sailors can enter to race in the two-day event. You need to be a member of the class association, so visit www.gbrtopper.co.uk to enter online! Many thanks.

Chris Burrows

The actual address for the club is:

• Oxford Sailing Club,
• Farmoor Reservoir,
• Farmoor,
• Oxford.
• OX2 9NS.

The Club is located on a large reservoir to the west of Oxford between the villages of Cumnor and Farmoor. It is easily reached from major routes: A34, M40, A420 and the A40 and is shown on most road maps. If you propose to find us with Sat Nav or a route planner, use OX2 9NS as your point of reference for the club. Below are direct links to some popular web based route planners which you may find useful when planning your journey.

A34

Leave the A34 at the A420 junction taking the Swindon route. Take the first exit, half way up the hill and then turn right at the T-junction towards Farmoor. At the mini-roundabout in Farmoor, turn left towards Cumnor and take the third entrance to the reservoir, on the right, into the Public car park. There is no need to stop at the gate house. The club house is clearly visible from the car park.

M40

Heading South, leave the M40 at junction 9 taking the A34 south towards Oxford. Follow directions as in the A34.

Heading North

leave the motorway at junction 8 taking the A40 towards the Oxford ring road. Turn right following the ring road until you get to the A34 then turn left heading south. Then see above.

A40 - Eastbound

At the Eynsham roundabout turn right, straight over the next roundabout and then left at the next (signposted Oxford). Once over the toll bridge (5p for cars, 10p for car plus trailer) continue to Farmoor village. At the mini-roundabout, turn right towards Cumnor and take the third entrance to the reservoir, on the right, into the Public car park. There is no need to stop at the gate house. The club house is clearly visible from the car park.

A40 - Westbound

At the Eynsham roundabout turn left, straight over the next roundabout and then left at the next (signposted Oxford). Once over the toll bridge (5p for cars, 10p for car plus trailer) continue to Farmoor village. At the mini-roundabout, turn right towards Cumnor and take the third entrance to the reservoir, on the right, into the Public car park. There is no need to stop at the gate house. The club house is clearly visible from the car park.

A420 - Eastbound

Approaching from the Swindon direction, exit the A420 to the village of Cumnor. Turn left at T-junction and follow the road through the village (small one way system) towards Farmoor. The reservoir can be clearly seen as you come down the hill. Take the first major left hand turn into the car park.

Notice or Race

Standard Sailing Instructions

Farmoor Reservoir Course Card

- it might be useful to print and laminate this then stick it to your boat

Supplementary Sailing Instructions

Farmoor Reservoir is just over 180 miles from Sothport, and is expected to take about three and a quarter hours to get there. As ever safe journey and enjoy the sailing.

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Report and Results.

Beijing Olympics - Algae Update #3

The Chinese government has successfully cleared tonnes of algae that was blocking the Olympic sailing course in the eastern city of Qingdao.

A special protection zone was set up using a boom and netting.

But in other areas the thick bright green algae is still polluting the beaches.

The Chinese government had set a goal of clearing the sailing area by Tuesday. The Olympic Games begin on 8 August.

The water at the Olympic sailing course in Qingdao is now largely algae free.

Some 10,000 troops from the People's Liberation Army have lifted over half a million tonnes of the thick heavy weed from the coastline.

A boom and netting is stopping more of the algae coming ashore.

Olympic sailing teams here say they can now train and will be able to compete in Qingdao's waters.

But at beaches not protected by the boom, the algae is still coming in.

China says it is a naturally occurring, though rare, phenomenon. Environmentalists blame pollution.

By Quentin Sommerville

Before	After

Before and after - the beach at Qingdao - BBC Video.

Beijing Olympics - Algae Update #2

Algae bloom not to affect Olympic sailing event in Chinese city.

China View 2008-07-06 21:57:59 [local time]

QINGDAO, July 6 (Xinhua) -- The thick algae that invaded the sea off Qingdao city in east China's Shandong Province will not affect the Olympic sailing event to be hosted in the coastal city, said oceanographical experts on Sunday.

Coverage of the algae, namely enteromorpha prolifera, is shrinking and its photosynthesis ability, a key factor for its growth rate, has been reduced to one-fifth as that at the beginning of June, said Zhou Mingjiang, a research fellow with the Institute of Oceanology under the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS).

"The algae will be converted into carbon, generating no toxin during the process," said Tang Qisheng, ocean-ecological expert with the Chinese Academy of Engineering.

Blue-green algae choked the eastern Taihu Lake last summer, forcing local water plants to cut drinking water supplies to 2 million residents in Wuxi City, Jiangsu Province.

But Zhou Mingjiang noted that different from the blue-green algae that grew in polluted water, the algae in Qingdao only grew in clean water and would not affect people's drinking water.

"Outbreak of enteromorpha prolifera had been reported in many countries, including Italy, France and Denmark," he said.

According to Sun Song, head of the CAS Institute of Oceanology, no obvious change was detected in terms of water quality.

"The water quality meets the need for Olympic sailing events," he said.

More than 130,000 soldiers and volunteers have cleared nearly 50 tons of algae from water. Currently, coverage of algae in the 49.48-square-kilometer sailing event venue was reduced to 0.156 square kilometers.

The algae bloom has some impact on training of 217 athletes from 26 countries who are preparing for competition of the Olympic Games.

"The green stuff would stick on our ships and lower the speed. Meanwhile, we have to pay attention to the fishing boats cleaning the sea," said Greek athlete Iordanis Paschalidis.

But a volunteer said that most teams resumed training on Sunday and athletes generally showed understanding.

"In Italy and Argentina, we have met with similar problems. But I have never seen so many people involved in the cleaning work. Chinese government has made great efforts," said Consuelo Monsegur from Argentina.

Yuan Zhiping, assistant to the chairman of the Qingdao Olympic Sailing Committee, said that no complaints for affected training were filed and cleaning work progressed smoothly.

A 32,000-meter-long enclosure was being set up in the sea to keep algae out of the sailing event venue.

"This move is to enhance protection for the venue," said Xia Geng, mayor of Qingdao.

The algae sometimes blocked sailing routes and affected preparations for the Games. Qingdao government vowed to clear up the sailing event venue before July 15.

The sailing competitions are scheduled for August 9-23.

Beijing Olympics - Algae Update #1

Training area for Olympic sailing event clear from algae invasion.

China View 2008-07-05 23:30:22 [local time]

QINGDAO, East China, July 5 (Xinhua) -- Training area for the athletes to compete in the Olympic sailing competition in August is now clear from the algae invasion in the host city of Qingdao.

"If the weather is cooperative, athletes are able to complete their sailing course at the training areas now," said Yuan Zhiping, assistant of the Chairman with the Qingdao Olympic Sailing Committee, said at a press conference on Saturday.

The official also reassured the invading algae, called enteromorpha prolifera, would be wiped out at the competition area before July 15.

"Actually, I hope the cleaning can complete ahead of the schedule, so that the athletes will have more time to get used to the competition venue," said Yuan.

Thousands of soldiers and volunteers are still cleaning the bright green weeds, which was first spotted at the end of May and started to bloom in mid-June.

Inflatable barriers have also been placed near the coastline to prevent the algae from encroaching on the shore.

According to an emergency headquarters set up to clean the algae, its coverage in the sailing competition areas, which span more than 50 square kilometers, had shrunk from 32 percent five days ago to less than 10 percent by Friday.

But an aerial survey shows 339 square kilometers of the green growth floating along the shoreline of the city and parts of the Yellow Sea, authorities said.

The algae also covered part of the training area, where sailors from 26 countries and regions are training, and the algae sometimes blocked sailing routes and affected preparations for the Games.

Sailors said they had to stop during training to clean the algae off their boats.

The sailing competitions are scheduled from Aug. 9 to 23.

Experts from the State Oceanic Administration (SOA) are working to determine the source and cause of the algae outbreak.

The SOA was monitoring the route of the algae flow into the Olympic venue with current bottles. Experts dropped 80 bottles in the water around the venue after the bloom was spotted.

They concluded some algae was from the waters of Rizhao and Jiaonan to the south of Qingdao.

Beijing Olympics - Algae

Algae engulfs Olympic sailing course

- BBC Report by Quentin Sommerville.

Volunteers are trying to clean up a huge outbreak of green algae at the coastal city of Qingdao, which will host the Olympic sailing events.

BBC Video Report.

Beijing Olympics - Sail The Course

Guide to the Olympic sailing course

Great Britain Laser class sailor Paul Goodison explains how to get the best lines around the course that Britain's sailors will encounter at the Olympics.

BBC Video Report.

Beijing Olympics - Qingdao

From the Official Olympic WebSite for Sailing at Qingdao:

Welcome to Qindao - The Home of Sailing Events at the Beijing Olympics in 2008

The sailing events for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad will be held within Qingdao International Sailing Center, the five water areas outside Fushan Bay.

A unique blend of sea and mountains makes Qingdao a well-known summer resort. With an average temperature ranging from 20℃ to 28 ℃, the period from July through September is the most agreeable season for the tour. Qingdao International Beer Festival at the second weekend during each August offers you a rare opportunity to taste all the famous beers across the world. The municipal characteristics of Qingdao, the “red-tile roofs, green trees, azure sea and blue sky”, are best embodied by Badaguan Scenic Area, where the adjacent beach, the surrounding flowers and trees, the tranquil environment and various villas with more than 20 national architectural styles will leave you an impression of European towns. In addition, Qingdao is also well-known for its numerous and unique squares.

Beijing Olympics - Sailing Novice

Shirley Robertson's guide to sailing

Double Olympic gold medallist Shirley Robertson takes the BBC's sailing reporter Rob Walker out for his very first lesson in how to sail.

BBC Video Report.

NW Traveller #9 @ Bassenthwaite SC

The weekend of the 5th and 6th of July is the weekend of the 2008 North West Topper Area Championships, and it will be held this year at Bassenthwaite Sailing Club in the Lake District.

Racing starts at 11:00 each day, there are camping facilities on site, and for those inclined to wander; some fantactic fells nearby. This is one of the best locations on the circuit and should not be missed.

Bassenthwaite SC have provided a link to an ariel view of the location and also webcam images of the view from the cloub house. There's also a 360 degree webcam view.

Entry fees are £10 for two days racing in glorious surrounding and very "interesting" wind patterns - do not miss it!!

Amy Mercer didn't - Hope you had a great time Amy, looks like you're relaxing as hard as you can....

To Quote the BSC website:

A really beautiful inland sailing water surrounded by the northern fells of The Lake District National Park. One of the largest Cumbrian lakes 4 miles in length and three-quarters of a mile wide, the lake lies generally north to south. Its peace is undisturbed by power craft except those used for rescue. Winds mainly SW but often SE or NW giving long legs and superb courses.

The unrivalled scenery provides an area for touring and walking. There are many hotels and boarding houses within a short distance as well as caravan and camping sites. Eating places are plentiful.

The clubhouse is located 8 miles north of Keswick just off the A66 at Dubwath which is on the north western shore. From the south leave the M6 motorway at Penrith (Junction 40) and travel westwards along A66 for approx. 25 miles. At north end of lake turn right for Dubwath and right again for club. From north and east via Carlisle follow A595 southwestwards towards Cockermouth to Bothel. Follow A591 to Castle Inn. Turn right and follow lakeshore westwards, over bridge turn left towards Dubwath and the Club.

The Clubhouse is a modern building benefiting from good views over most courses, good changing facilities (including hot showers!), a family/function room, well equipped galley and licensed bar. The large grounds readily accommodate campers and caravanners during open meetings.

Further information can be obtained from the club directly:

• Bassenthwaite Sailing Club
  Dubwath,
  Cockermouth
  CA13 9YD
  


• Tel: 017687 76341



• email

The contact for the event is Roy Blackburn 01900 827696

At just over 110 miles away the journey is expected to take about two and a quarter hours - straight up the M6 to Junction 40 then turn left onto the A66 towards Keswick. As ever safe journey and have a fantastic time at the ONLY Lake event in the area!!

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Report and Results.

NW Traveller #8 @ Elton SC

Saturday the 21st of June, and Elton Sailing Club is the venue for the eighth NW Topper Traveller event of 2008.

Sailing Instructions for Open Events at Elton SC are availble, as is a Map of the Reservoir. It's well worthwhile downloading this map, laminating it and sticking it to the foredeck of your Topper.

Also worth looking at is the map of the location and local approach roads.

Contact for the event is Dave Woodhead, Dave can be reached on 01257 265208.

Elton SC, in Bury, is only just over an hours drive, and is a favourite with Topper Sailors during the winter season for their excellent training (and food and hospitality - probably the favourite club on the circuit).

If there is one event on the calendar not to miss it's the Elton SC Topper Traveller - "be there or ........." Good Luck, Safe Journey, and have a great event.

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Report and Results.

Craftinsure Nationals #2 @ Largs SC

The second Craftinsure Nationwide Topper Event takes place on Saturday and Sunday the 14th and 15th of June 2008 at Largs Sailing Club, in North Ayrshire on the West Coast of Scotland.

Largs Sailing Club is just over 240 miles away and is expected to take about four and a half hours - non stop to get there!! Watch our for the speed cameras on the A8 and A78 near Greenock.

So far only 120 Toppers have registered for the event at this picturesque west coast sailing resort.

Scottish Sailing Events have provided a Notice of Race

As have Sail Racer....

Notice Of Race

Standard Sailing Instructions

Supplimentary Sailing Instructions

Notes from the Largs SC Website....

The SSI and LSC are pleased to be hosting one of the Craftinsure Nationwide Series events at Largs. We welcome this event and are pleased to have been asked to deliver the event in conjunction with the Topper Class Association.

The Topper Nationwide event has been to Largs before, likewise has the UK Topper Nationals and the venue is ideal for the large fleet expected. Largs SC is situated on the Largs Yacht Haven site and has a wide range of facilities for competitors, families and friends. The chandlery shops, sail makers, restaurants and bars make it ideal along with the abundance of free parking. LSC main lounge has great views of the launching and race areas which can be enjoyed by those staying on dry land!

The Notice of Race and Entry Forms for this event will be available on the GBR Topper website. For more information about the venue, accommodation and travel please browse this site.

Largs SC have provided links to Google Maps location information, and links to local accommodation. There are also camping facilities close by too.

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14^th June 2008 @ 14:45

Waiting for Wind....

Weather on the day....

Home after Race Three....

- pictures courtesy of Ruth Adams
- thanks Ruth.

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Largs Sailing Club can be contacted via:

• Largs Sailing Club
  Largs Yacht Haven,
  Irvine Road,
  Largs,
  Ayrshire,
  KA30 8EZ

• Telephone
  • Office:- 01475 670000
  • Bar/Restaurant:- 01475 670022

• Email
• Club:- Secretary
• Website:- Gerry

WindGuru Weather forcasts are good for the event (three stars), so do not forget to take the midge repellent ;-)

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Report and Results.

NW Traveller #7 @ Ullswater YC

Ullswater Yacht Club plays host for the seventh North West Topper Traveller Event of 2008.

Saturday the 7th of June is the date for the event, and the venue is shared with the North West Junior Traveller Event.

Ullswater YC have provided on-line access to Entry Forms and a copy of the
NW Topper Traveller Notice of the Race,
and the
North West Junior Traveller Notice of the Race.

Further information can be obtained from:

Peter Dawson, 01768 362052.

and

Neil Thompson,
UYC Sailing Secretary (Open Events):-
45 Ash Grove,
Kirklevington,
Yarm,
TS15 9NQ
Tel. 01642 783485

Camping accommodation is available on site, but prior booking is necessary.

The journey is expected to take about 2 hours, and the first race is scheduled to start at 11:00, briefing at 10:30, so a 7:30 start from home would be advisable.

Once again safe journey and good luck with the event - we hope that there will be considerably more wind than in previous years. ;-)

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Report and Results.

NW Traveller #6 @ Dovestone SC

NW Topper Traveller Number six is to be held at Dovestone Sailing Club in Oldham on Saturday the 24th of May.

Sally McKee is the contact for the event and can be telephoned on 01457 871133 or alternatively via email

Racing is due to start at 11:00, so expect to be there for 10:00 and a briefing at 10:30 at the club.

Dovestone Sailing Club can be located at:

• Dovestone Reservoir,
• Banks Lane,
• Greenfield,
• Oldham,
• OL3 7NE.

Their telephone number is: 01457 873000.

Dovestone is just over 60 miles from Southport and is expected to take about an hour and a half to get there using the A570, M6, M62, M60, M62, and leave at Junction 18 towards Oldham.

Safe journey and good luck.

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Report and Results.

ITCA(GBR) General Information

The following useful information has been published on the ITCA (GBR) Topper Web Site:

• Race Meetings 2008



• Constitution



• Championship Number Positions for:



• Old "Hyde" Sail



• New "East Sails" Sail



• 4.2 "East Sails" Sail

Nationals @ Paignton SC

This years Topper Nationals take place at Paignton Sailing Club in Devon.

• Online Booking for the event through SailRacer
• Notice of Race
• Standard Sailing Instructions

About the club....

Paignton Sailing Club has fleets of Fireballs, Lasers, Toppers, Albacores, and Laser 2000 and 4000 plus a variety of craft in the handicap fleet. Each year the Club runs a couple of weekend open events and the national championship of a major association.

The Club is also host to Paignton Regatta and provides a summer and winter race programmes for people who enjoy getting out on the water and indulging in a bit of friendly competition.

Racing takes place in the bay usually no more than a mile or so from the harbour on Sunday mornings and on Wednesday evenings (during the summer months). In addition there are special interest races such as the Orestone and Round the Bay race and those during the August Regatta season.

Torbay, which hosted the sailing for the 1948 Olympic Games, is a superb sailing centre. It is almost tideless, sheltered from prevailing Westerlies and blessed with its own sunny micro-climate.

If you are without a boat you can hire one of the Club's toppers, Picos, Laser or the new RS Vision for a few pounds.

The Club is RYA recognised and runs a variety of courses for all levels from beginner to the advanced sailor.

The harbour was established in the 18th Century, some 500 years before Queen Victoria’s accession to the throne. The local Council has managed the harbour since 1935. Today the harbour remains a hive of activity, especially during the summer months and a vast range of different users enjoy the benefits of this unassuming maritime gem.

The Harbour dries out at low tide and is well known for having an unconventional fairway approach. Unlike the majority of harbours in Great Britain the approach to Paignton is made on the port side of the fairway and not the starboard side. This unusual and interesting feature is marked by a unique looking seasonal buoy and provides for a much safer harbour approach.

Directions from the Paignton Sailing Club website....

1. From the Ring Road (A380) at Tweenaway Cross / Totnes Road junction (traffic lights).
2. Follow the Totnes Road past the traffic lights by the Zoo / Morrisons, and take the next right-hand turn on the brow of the hill into Hayes Road which becomes Penwill Way.
3. Follow Penwill Way around and down a steep hill to the traffic lights on Dartmouth Road.
4. Turn left at these lights.
5. Go along Dartmouth Road past the Big Tree and turn right at the mini roundabout onto Whitstone Road.
6. Follow the road over the railway bridge, around the corner and down the hill to the mini roundabout by the block of flats / shop.
7. Go across this roundabout joining Sands Road, passing the Church on your right heading towards the harbour.
8. At the mini roundabout at the end of Esplanade Road by the Esplanade Hotel either offload your boat (on the green - see below) or turn right to get to the club. The club is located on the South Quay of the harbour. (Entrance at the rear of the building).

Parking is a matter of course but generally there is room on the roads around the back of the harbour area or in the nearby car parks. Watch out for the double yellows - some allow you to park between October and May.

MultiMap view of the location.

Paignton Sailing Club
South Quay
The Harbour
Paignton
Devon
TQ4 6DT
UK

01803 556184
01803 525817

www.paigntonsailingclub.com

NW Traveller #5 @ Budworth SC

This Saturday; the 17th of May 2008, is the date for the fifth 2008 North West Topper Traveller event, and it's hosted by Budworth Sailing Club in Cheshire.

The contact for the event is Tony Wilcock [01925 860458]

The Club is located alongside Budworth Mere, close to the village of Great Budworth in Cheshire. This is close to the motorway network and very easily accessed from Northwich, Warrington, South Manchester and Knutsford.

Budworth Sailing Club
Warrington Road
Great Budworth
CW9 6HA

Access to the Club is via a short private road through farmland just off the A559 Warrington to Northwich road.

Links to Multimap and Google Maps have been provided by the club.

The first race is scheduled for an 11:00 start so expect a briefing at 10:30.

Budworth Sailing Club is just over fourty miles from Southport, and should take no more than an hour or so to get there.

As always good luck to all Travellers, and a safe journey to and from the event.

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Report and Results.

NW Traveller #4 @ West Lancashire YC

****SUNDAY THE 11TH OF MAY****

Is the date for the fourth North West Topper Traveller Event of 2008. Please take note that it is Sunday the 11th and not Saturday the 10th as published in the Topper calendar.

The event will be held at West Lancashire Yacht Club on the coast at Ainsdale on Sea, just south of Southport.

Food and presentations will take place back at the club house after the event. It is intended to run the event on the sea, but if conditions are unsuitable; sailing will revert to the Marine Lake in Southport where the club is based.

If the weather looks poor, please check with the club beforehand to ensure that you arrive at the correct location.

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Report and Results.

Sailwave - Race Scoring Software

Latest Version released 1st May 2008.

Quote:

"Sailwave is a popular easy-to-use multi-lingual sailing regatta scoring program for Windows. It is used internationally at all levels of the sport; from club racing to regional and world championships. Flexible publishing tools allow results to be targeted to web browsers, web-sites and email destinations.

In addition to the help file, friendly support from the author and hundreds of experienced Sailwave users is available from the Sailwave User Group.

Although primarily used at sailing events, Sailwave is also used for windsurfing, ice yachting, land yachting and model yachting. You can download Sailwave and additional resources (rating and language files etc) from this website."

PY Numbers

The RYA have published their latest 2008 Portsmouth Yardstick Scheme Ratings.

They are available as a pdf or an excel spreadsheet direct from the RYA.

Topper Inlands @ Grafham Water SC

Grafham Water Sailing Club (The Finest Inland Sailing in the UK) is host once again to the Magic Marine Topper Inlands.

Saturday the 3rd of May and Sunday the 4th of May are the dates for this years Topper Inlands. Sailing starts at 12:00, there will be a briefing before the race, and further details should be available on the club website.

Grafham Water have produced a useful list of starting flag sequences used in open meetings which can be printed out, laminated and stuck to the deck of your Topper. please make a note of them as they are not the standard ones.

A topology map of the lake and the mark locations is provided by the club, and is well worth printing off and sticking to your deck.

The address for the sailing club is: Perry, Huntingdon, Cambs. PE28 0BU

• Tel: 01480 810478


• Tel: 0845 6442548


• Fax: 01480 812206


• email: admin@grafham.org

For those travelling from Southport, it's just short of 190 miles and is expected to take about three and a half hours, so safe journey and enjoy the sailing.

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Report, Pictures and Results.

• Main Fleet Results - 239 entries
• 4.2 Fleet Results - 20 entries
• Regatta Fleet Results - 14 entries

Yachts & Yachting 4.2 Report & Results - By Miles Palmer.
Yachts & Yachting 5.3 Report - By Miles Palmer.

NW Traveller #3 @ Nantwich & Borders SC

Saturday the 26th of April 2008 and the North West Topper Traveller event visits Nantwich & Borders Sailing Club, (the one with the complimentary Tea and Toast - Thanks Alan!!), for the third NW Topper Traveller of 2008.

The club is located on the A51 a few miles south of Nantwich, Cheshire, and about two miles north of Bridgemere Garden World, so if you fancy a bit of gardening leave whilst the other are sailing you're in the right area.

Open meeting sailing instructions are published by the club and a link is included.

The sailing club is just over 50 miles from Southport, and is estimated to take almost an hour and a quarter to get there.

For those of you with GPS navigation the post code is: SK11 9PR.

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Report and Results.

Craftinsure Nationals #1 @ Datchet Water SC

Datchet Water Sailing Club based on the Queen Mother Reservoir, will be hosting the first event in this years Craftinsure Nationwide Topper Series.

The dates are Saturday the 12th and Sunday the 13th of April 2008.
A quote from their web site:

"Datchet Water Sailing Club is set on a large inland reservoir providing a complete package for every type of sailor.
The ‘water’ is 475 acres or about 1km in diameter - making it one of the largest inland areas in the Southern England.
It's large and flexible enough to provide year round sailing for all boat classes and ideal for hosting sailing events of all levels from junior, club through to large international events.
The club has modern facilities and an on site chandlery – the Dinghy Store."

This is an aerial view of the reservoir provided by MultiMaps

The journey is about 210 miles and is expected to take just under 4 hours.

For those with a GPS the postcode for the reservoir is: SL3 9NT

As ever we wish all North West Topper Sailors good luck and a safe journey there and back.

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Report and Results.

Topper Worlds - Tralee Information

Tralee Bay Sailing Club (Ireland), is hosting the 2008 Gul Topper Worlds.

They have, so far; published the following information:

• The Notice of Race.



• An Online Booking Form.



• An Offline Booking Form.



• A Medical Notification Form.



• A Parental Consent Form.



• A Voulenteer To Help Form.



• A list of Current Entries.

RYA Zone Newsletter

Chris Blackburn's April Newsletter to the West Zone.

Chris Blackburn's April Newsletter to the North Zone.

NW Traveller #2 @ Redesmere SC

The second NW Topper Traveller will be held at Redesmere Sailing Club on Saturday the 5th of April.

Redesmere Sailing Club is situated some 5 miles from Macclesfield, Cheshire, close to Capesthorne Hall.

Directions to the Redesmere Sailing Club

From Alderley Edge
Take the A34 south to Monk's Heath traffic lights. Carry straight on, past Capesthorne Hall. About 500m past the hall the road bears sharp right. The gravel track to the Club is off to the left at the beginning of the bend.

From Congleton
Take the A34 north through Siddington towards Alderley Edge. Shortly after passing through Siddington the road bends sharp right, followed 200m later by a sharp bend to the left. At the apex of the left hand bend a gravel track on the right leads to the Club.

From Knutsford
Follow the A537 east towards Macclesfield. At Monk's Heath traffic lights turn right onto the A34 south towards Congleton. Follow the road past Capesthorne Hall. About 500m past the hall the road bears sharp right. The gravel track to the Club is off to the left at the beginning of the bend.

From Macclesfield
Follow the A537 west towards Knutsford. At Monk's Heath traffic lights turn left onto the A34 south towards Congleton. Follow the road past Capesthorne Hall. About 500m past the hall the road bears sharp right. The gravel track to the Club is off to the left at the beginning of the bend.

Location / Map Refs / Map / Schematic GPS Location: N53.24400 W 2.22881

Grid Reference: SJ85072

Briefing is at 10:30, with race 1 starting at 11:00. Races 2 and 3 will follow at the discretion of the OOD.

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Report and Results

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Crosby SC - "Update"

Some of you will already know that the Crosby Sailing Club has been under threat of closure and or relocation for some time now.

This article was posted by one of their members earlier in March.

"Crosby SC are now very nearly at the end of an era. Their old clubhouse is now nearly fully demolished. It has taken just under a week to get to the stage in the photograph.

The Council have spared no expense, finding them a sumptuous new club house! They realised that to move only the racing fleet to neighbours West Lancs YC, who had generously offered to assist, would cost a fortune in membership fees for the 12-18 month project time span.

The club now has an old container to use as a meeting room, and another to house their rescue boat and then act as changing rooms for the rugged northern chaps. Who knows where the ladies will find to change, they turned down the shared room idea!

To cap it all, they pulled out the plug on the lake and there's no water until the next spring tide..."

....Ian (SoloMan) Middleton [15th March 2008 - courtesy Yachts and Yachting]

All this for the Liverpool City of Culture Year 2008!!

NW Traveller #1 @ Winsford Flash SC

The First NW Topper Traveller Event of 2008 will be held at Winsford Flash SC

Directions to the Venue:

Post Code for GPS Location: CW7 4EE

From the M6 Motorway
From the M6 junction 18 take the exit to Middlewich, Winsford, Chester, A54.
Follow the A54 through Middlewich to Winsford.
Take the second exit on the large roundabout as you enter Winsford,
then up the hill on the dual carriageway.
Turn left at the second set of traffic lights.
Continue to a small roundabout and turn left.
Follow the road through the housing estate, past the Conservative club until you come to a sharp right turn.
Continue straight on into the lane ahead. (sign on the left 'Ways Green')
Follow the lane onto the unsurfaced section and turn right at the first junction,
follow this lane to the sailing club.
The lane is single track but there are passing places.

If coming from the direction of Chester
follow the A54 to Winsford,
past the Cheshire Police HQ,
turn left at the next roundabout,
straight on at the next large roundabout (with traffic lights),
down the hill and turn right at the next traffic lights.
Then follow the directions as above.

M6 Approach & Lake Map:

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Report and Results

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