Multiple victories for young sailors at Walhampton School in Lymington

Walhampton School pupils have been busy recently, with multiple victories in a range of sailing events.

A team of six headed across to the Isle of Wight to compete in the annual U11 Ryde School Regatta on a sunny day with a near-perfect gentle wind.

They raced superbly in the double-handed Pico, and the delighted group emerged victorious.

The week before half-term, two teams of four travelled to the Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy for the IAPS sailing competition run by the Andrew Simpson Sailing Centre.

The U11 team raced in two boats within a fleet of 28, while the U13 team raced a day later in two boats competing in a fleet of 36 in RS Zests against other prep schools from across the UK.

The enthusiasm and team spirit shone through, resulting in the U11s winning the combined competition with Louis and Rory’s boat also coming second in the individual category.

The U13s sailing championship is always a hard-fought event. Felix, Laszlo, Henry and Tom have worked hard throughout the year, training through the winter, and they felt ready for the challenge.

They discussed tactics before the race and looked out for each other on the water, and both boats managed to consistently keep the first and second positions in all four races.

The competition was strong, but Walhampton U13s won the team competition, while tactics on the water between the boys ensured that both boats achieved two first and two second-place finishes, meaning they shared first place in the individual contest.

Walhampton School’s sailing lead, Mrs Williams, said: “Well done to all who took part, who gave it their best and were humble and polite in receiving their successes.

“We are very proud of you and the example you set to all of the younger Walhampton sailors.

“We look forward to further achievements as the season continues and for all participants at the Royal Lymington Yacht Club Youth Week in August.”