The ABP Cadet UK Nationals: A Sunshine-Filled Finale
The ABP Cadet UK Nationals have reached their grand conclusion, marking the end of an eventful and sunshine-filled competition. Over the course of four days, young sailors showcased their skills amidst challenging weather conditions. While the spectators and supporters enjoyed the perfect weather onshore, the sailors had their hands full dealing with progressively lighter winds, making every race a test of strategy and endurance. Under the careful watch of race officer Arky, the competitors navigated these tricky conditions with remarkable perseverance.
Despite the best efforts of all involved, the fluctuating winds limited the number of races that could be held each day. Day 1 saw three races, Day 2 had two, and Day 3 managed just one. Hopes were high that the sequence wouldn’t continue into the final day, but light winds once again prevailed, allowing for only a single race on Day 4. This brought the total to seven races for the competition, providing a respectable series to determine the champions.
A Spectacle in Plymouth
The presence of over 100 Cadet boats in Plymouth was a sight to behold, capturing the attention of locals and tourists alike. The vibrant display of spinnakers and the sheer energy of 200+ enthusiastic young sailors created a festive atmosphere. As the boats made their way to and from the sailing area in Plymouth Sound, departing from the Mountbatten Centre’s slipways, the scene was nothing short of spectacular. Spectators on the breakwater and Hoe could be heard commenting on the various nationalities represented, adding an international flair to the event. David Simmonds beautifully captured this lively return in a captivating video.
The Final Day of Competition
Gold Fleet Showdown
The final day offered one last opportunity for sailors in the Gold, Silver, and Regatta fleets to improve their overall standings. In the Gold fleet, the competition was fierce. Ultimately, John Garner and Jack Benyan from Australia emerged victorious. The Ukrainian teams of Yehor and Yurii Veretelnyk and Illia Donchenko and Anatolii Moskalenko secured second and third places, respectively. Their impressive performances highlighted the international talent present at the event.
Silver Fleet Victories
The Silver fleet also saw intense competition. Alex McEwan and Harry Murphy McKie from Great Britain clinched the top spot, followed by their compatriots George Cox-Olliff and George Letts in second place. Antoni Gabryszewski and Natalia Staniszewska from Poland rounded out the top three. This diverse representation underscored the global appeal of the Cadet class.
Regatta Fleet Highlights
In the Regatta fleet, Great Britain dominated the podium. Kyla Brezhan and Alex Nailer took first place, with Hugh Voysey and Hannah Muir Wood coming in second. Charlotte Noren-Topham and Miles Hardy secured third place, demonstrating the depth of talent within the British sailing community.
UK National Champions
Among the British competitors, Samantha Nee and Isabelle Davies stood out, finishing as the highest-placing GBR boat in fourth overall. This achievement earned them the title of UK National champions. David Simmonds documented their journey and triumph in a compelling video montage, celebrating their hard-earned success.
Gratitude and Acknowledgments
The success of the Cadet UK Nationals was made possible by the generous support of numerous sponsors. Special thanks go to Associated British Ports, Minerva’s Virtual Academy, Stubborn Mule, Pure Storage, NFU Mutual, Royal Hospital School, GOAT Marine, West System, Optimum Time, Exe Sails, The Cornwall Bakery, Stitchprint, Golden Duck, Indigo Concept, Clamcleat, and Llandow Caravan Park. The event was expertly organized by Plymouth Youth Sailing at the Mountbatten Centre for Watersports.
For those who want to relive the excitement, the event can be followed live on the Sailracer Tracker via the link www.cadetworlds.co.uk/tracker and on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook @GBRCadets.
Gold Fleet Overall Results
- John Garner and Jack Benyan (Australia)
- Yehor and Yurii Veretelnyk (Ukraine)
- Illia Donchenko and Anatolii Moskalenko (Ukraine)
Silver Fleet Overall Results
- Alex McEwan and Harry Murphy McKie (Great Britain)
- George Cox-Olliff and George Letts (Great Britain)
- Antoni Gabryszewski and Natalia Staniszewska (Poland)
Regatta Fleet Overall Results
- Kyla Brezhan and Alex Nailer (Great Britain)
- Hugh Voysey and Hannah Muir Wood (Great Britain)
- Charlotte Noren-Topham and Miles Hardy (Great Britain)
FAQs
What were the main challenges faced by sailors during the ABP Cadet UK Nationals?
The main challenge faced by sailors was the progressively lighter winds throughout the event. This made it difficult to maintain consistent race schedules and required sailors to adapt their strategies accordingly.
How many races were held during the competition?
A total of seven races were held over the course of the four-day event. Day 1 had three races, Day 2 had two, Day 3 had one, and Day 4 had one race.
Who were the overall winners in the Gold fleet?
John Garner and Jack Benyan from Australia emerged as the overall winners in the Gold fleet.
What is the significance of the UK National champions title?
The UK National champions title is awarded to the highest-placing GBR boat. In this competition, Samantha Nee and Isabelle Davies earned this honor by finishing fourth overall.
How can I follow future Cadet sailing events?
Future Cadet sailing events can be followed live on the Sailracer Tracker and through social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook @GBRCadets.
Conclusion
The ABP Cadet UK Nationals have come to a close, marking the end of a thrilling and challenging competition. Despite the light winds, the sailors displayed remarkable skill and perseverance. The event was a vibrant spectacle, showcasing the talents of young sailors from around the world. As we look forward to the ABP Cadet Worlds starting on August 3rd, we extend our gratitude to the sponsors and organizers who made this event possible. The Cadet class continues to inspire and captivate, promising more exciting competitions in the future.
