The Island’s top young dinghy sailors will compete at the Appleby RS Tera Open Regatta at the Isle of Man Yacht Club this weekend. Up to fifteen boats are expected, including entries from the UK. There are three races scheduled for Saturday afternoon and three on Sunday morning. It will be the largest junior dinghy racing event to take place in the Island this year.
Five sailors from the Manx Youth Sailing Squad will compete, following winter training both on and off the Island. Amie Shute, Greg Kelly, Tony Pitt and Ffinlo Wright will race in the Pro fleet while Matthew Petts will sail in the Sport fleet.
The competition at the front of both fleets will be of a very high standard. Greg Kelly finished fourth at the RS Tera National, Inland and World Championships in 2011. Amie was 5th at the World Championship and along with Greg is part of the RS Tera GBR national squad. 2010 World Champion James Kelly is also taking part in the Pro fleet. Ffinlo and Matt were the Indepent Association of Preparatory Schools (IAPS) champions in 2011, with a win in every race at the event.
There are a lot of new entrants this year as well, which is exciting to see. The future of Manx dinghy racing looks very promising. This year there are three places available in the Manx Youth Sailing Squad, coaches will be at the Appleby Open looking to invite potential new members.
For up to date results keep and eye on manxsailracer.com or here 🙂