With large fleets, fair winds and sunshine, the 9er nationals has begun.
With 56 29ers, nine 49erFXs and 13 49ers, this fleet is one of the largest the class has seen in a number of years. The large fleets have also brought in a number of high class sailors such as the recent 29er Youth World Champions Tash Bryant and Annie Wilmot.
The regatta will also see Harry Price and Harry Morton (previous 29er Youth World Champions) in the 49er and many Olympic hopefuls in the 49erFX sailing with new pairings.
In the steady 12 to 18-knot southerly breeze all fleets found good tight racing with many position changes throughout each race.
A total of four back-to-back races were held lasting 30 to 45 minutes.
With positive attitudes and a great outlook for the rest of the regatta we will definitely be in for some close and interesting racing.
