Waldringfield Squadron Update July 2023

Waldringfield Cadets  at Cadet Worlds @ Nieuwpoort Belgium Roundup

What an amazing showcase for Cadet sailing Nieuwpoort was. Something for every sailor in both challenge and triumph. Old friends were reunited, and new friendships formed.

Day one proved a baptism of fire both on and offshore with no opportunity for a standard practice race (high wind), followed by an Ap over A for the following day (high wind), Monday saw the boats finally get afloat in a challenging wind and sea state. On shore, some members of the fleet were either struck down or recovering from the dreaded virus that was sweeping through.

With two WSC pairings in the main fleet, Alex & Jude and Gwen & Primrose, the challenge was set sailing against 56 boats from 9 countries. A mixture of wind strength and varying sea states, not to mention the tide was a challenge for everyone. Both pairings took their gains and losses to improve their skills during the week, demonstrating consistency and potential.  

The nine WSC promotional fleet boats proved themselves to be highly competitive during the week in a fleet of 36 boats and we enjoyed cheering those who made it to the podium for individual race results, notably Hettie & Clementine with a 1st and 3rd, Rhona & Sophie a 1st and Oscar & Emily two 3rds – Bravo!

Kemmel & Georgina, Lulu & James and George & George narrowly missed out on podium spots all scoring 4th places on different occasions. Tom & Ella had great boat speed and gained extra kudos with a rescue by the Belgium army! Kali had some consistent results in the teens, making a great team with Maddie from Frensham. Daniel & Joshua proved themselves skilled in the light and shifty conditions towards the end of the week scoring two 6th places on the last day.

A big thank you to the Promo coaches, Toby, Will, Alan and Simon for sharing their knowledge and providing support. Thanks also to Alex, Frank, Phil and Glen for supporting the main fleet boats and all the parents and families that made the event possible. We were very lucky that Jackie and Andy organized some amazing kit for us even though we traded most of it away on the last day! If you’re wondering whether you should be at the Worlds next year in Plymouth  - you should!