Emsworth represented at the Classic Channel regatta

Published 06:49 on 20 Jul 2022

In 2019, Polar Bear, (owned by Douglas Peniston) had a really enjoyable experience at the Classic Channel Regatta, and this year, Polar Bear was joined by Morning Bird (owned by the Poyner family) for the 2022 Classic Channel Regatta.

Due to the wind conditions, the event ran fewer races than in 2019. The main event (the cross-channel race) was delayed, and the start line was relocated to a virtual start line mid channel, on the far side of the shipping lanes with an 8pm start.

When we arrived, there was still no wind. So, the Poyner family managed a mid-channel swim. The race was postponed again and relocated a further 10 miles closer to France with a 10pm start. This is the first race we know of that has started mid-channel and with a 10pm start.

After a rest day in France (Bastille day - the fireworks were excellent) there was a final race in a fresher breeze around the beautiful l'Île de Bréhat.

The finishing parade of sail (Danse des Classiques) off Paimpol in fancy dress was a highlight. Polar Bear was captained by a 8ft inflatable Polar Bear. Morning Bird won the cross-channel race, and came 2nd overall. Polar Bear came 3rd overall.

If you have a classic yacht, why not come and enjoy join in the semi-serious racing and very sociable regatta. The next CCR is planned for late July 2024.