Even though Mother Nature wasnt as accommodating as she couldve been the Round Hayling Good Friday SUP outrigger and windsurf event was still a great success. Plenty of enthusiasts made the trek to tackle the 14 mile circumnavigation course despite the forecast not predicting ideal conditions.
The first time outrigger canoeing and stand up paddlers were able to complete the round island route middays start line was a melee of ocean going craft that coloured an otherwise grey sky. With plenty of spectators and supporters cheering on competitors the enthusiasm was enough to raise even the dampest of spirits.
The 35th year of windsurfing racing round Hayling saw a fifth consecutive win from Rob Kent in the Gold Fleet while Nigel Tailyour took top honours in the Silver. Hannah Maunder pipped fellow family member Murray to clinch the Bronze title.
Stand up paddle boarding duo Paul Simmons and Marie Buchanan smashed the Gold SUP category while Steve Trott nailed the Silver fleet. A shorter SUP course was on offer with a finish next to the Ship Inn and it was Jeff Marshman who claimed the podium here.
Round Hayling 2015 is the first year that outrigger canoeing has featured prominently and a healthy turnout of OC6 (six man boats) and OC1 (one man craft) turned out to pit their skills against the course. It was Dorset based Pete Hollidays team who took top honours in the OC6 class Nick Kethero securing the OC1 title.
With fab organisation by SailRacer and support from Tushingham/Starboard/Red Paddle Co and The SUP Co the 2015 Round Hayling event was a resounding success. Plans are already being made for next years gathering.
For more info check out hayling.sailracer.org
