🥉3rd Overall — Class 30 National Championships

Our first ever event in the Class 30 turned out to be one to remember — finishing 3rd overall at the National Championships! Not bad for our first time ever sailing the boat.

Day 1 — Trial by Fire 🌬️

The opening day delivered a proper baptism of breeze, with gusts pushing into the high 20s and long, physical windward-leeward courses that tested both the boat and crew. With limited time in the boat before the event, we focused on staying smooth through manoeuvres and learning how hard we could push the Class 30 upwind.
Despite a few early hiccups, we settled quickly into a groove and came away with a 2nd place finish — a massive confidence boost heading into the offshore leg.

Offshore Race — Highs, Lows, and Lessons

The offshore race was a full test of endurance, strategy, and patience. We nailed the start, leading the fleet out of the harbour, but a small navigational slip on the first leg cost us dearly, dropping us back to 6th.
Refusing to let it phase us, we regrouped and fought our way back toward the front within the hour — only to be caught out again when a wind transition split the fleet. As others found new pressure, we were left parked, watching positions slip away.
Over nearly 24 hours of racing, we gave everything tactically and physically, staying in contention but never quite catching the breaks. We crossed the line in 5th, tired but encouraged by our speed and teamwork throughout.

Final Day — Tactical Sprint Racing

The last day brought short, tactical races with tight legs, fast sail changes, and constant decisions. We had moments of real strength — particularly leading the fleet out of the harbour — but lost ground on the long reaching legs along the wall where local experience made the difference.
Even so, the team executed consistently, staying sharp through a busy day of mark roundings and quick transitions, securing enough points to finish 3rd overall.

A Brilliant Debut

It was an event full of learning, teamwork, and progress — exactly what we needed heading into the European Championships next week. Every leg brought new insight into how to get the most from the boat, and we’re walking away with plenty to build on.

A huge thank you to our team, supporters, and partners for making it possible. Offshore and inshore alike, the Class 30 delivered everything we hoped for — competitive racing, close battles, and plenty of room to grow.

Bring on the Europeans! 🙌