ESC Radio Sailing has arrived!

Published 20:37 on 8 May 2024

Question: where can you experience a competitive race start every 10 minutes, have tight racing and a buoy rounding every minute, countless port/starboard or tactical overtaking opportunities every 30 seconds and more race banter than you have ever experienced!? Answer: ESC Radio Sailing, of course!

The Club has recognised the continually increasing popularity of radio sailing and has therefore created an ESC Radio Sailing section to make the pastime more open to its members and to provide this as yet another alternative to drifting back from Tye with the water disappearing, or indeed blasting to Shepherd with the kite up doing 12kts and wondering if you paid the life insurance premium!

Radio sailing isn't a replacement for full size sailing, it's a place to continue your sailing hunger, hone your knowledge of the racing rules and meet others now addicted to little boat sailing! FYI, Russell Coutts and many of sailing's rock stars, including the America's Cup team, UK national and international champions, all race radio boats too.

ESC Radio Sailing will enjoy relaxed racing events (not scored) that are tentatively scheduled for every Monday at 17:00 hours during the summer season, hosted from the ESC car park pontoon. All racing is still subject to conditions, and any wind over 25kts typically results in an early trip to the Club bar.

Due to the immense generosity of one of our members, we now have a Club-owned DF95 available for testing and use until people get their own craft. It is booked via the WhatsApp group (to be set up) or via direct contact with Club members Jonny Hepworth or Jerry White (telephone/email access via the Club directory).

So, if you'd like to see what all the hype is about before buying your own, or just fancy a go, then please make contact or just turn up at our scheduled race days and ask for help (preferably not within 10 seconds of the start gun!)

ESC Club DF95 'Double O'!

Double O is free to use, with the caveat that if you break anything other than wear and tear items then you are expected to donate towards its maintenance/repair. It comes with 'A' suite sails so not useable above circa 15kt winds. Instruction is available on request. Double O is stored locally, and is available for pickup on your way to the millpond.

For more information on ESC Radio Sailing click here.