AOD 71st Anniversary Regatta – 2024
In 2023 we were fortunate with the weather and managed to complete the full programme of events. 2024 was different, it ran true to historical form – a weekend of mixed conditions!
Friday evening (21st June) saw the first race on the river, the forecast was not good, with fresh south westerlies and heavy rain predicted. The AOD fleet was somewhat reduced this year, what with recently sustained injuries (Round the Island Race), a couple of illnesses and foreign holidays; there were only five boats entered.
Friday’s weather forecast of rain was remarkably accurate. Almost down to the minute, it poured just it time for the 19:00 start! The fresh conditions made for a lively sail, and being the programmed River Race No.4, we were accompanied by a recently joined International 12 – (also a traditional 12ft clinker dinghy – but with Olympic heritage, designed in 1912 it became the class dinghy for the 1920 games).
The wind direction made for a tough beat down the river, especially for the single handers, but equally a lively run back up! Teal – No.22, had the situation well in hand and after two laps secured a reasonable lead to win the first race. Boats were swiftly packed away before heading to the Ship Inn – for pizzas – in the rain…
The Saturday afternoon bay race was abandoned due to the swell on the beach. So, it was onto the evening’s river race, with much improved conditions, brilliant sunshine and a fresh SW’ly. Five AODs (No.s 1, 8, 21, 22 & 26) raced and with lively conditions suiting Teal there were no surprises as to the winners!
Similarly, following the race the boats were packed away with an element of haste – the AOD Regatta Cocktail Party awaited at Glen Water Hall. The drinks were sampled on the terrace whilst taking in the beautiful backdrop, made all the better by a colourful sun set across the estuary. A lovely evening was had by both competitors and guests, and it was lovely to see Graham & Eileen (ex-AOD Maflingo) return west for the regatta.
Sunday’s programme dawned a little late, but with sea conditions moderated an afternoon race was held in the bay. Launching from the beach, a combination of marks was used, sending the fleet around the bay. Starting from the Chine provided a good beat across to Beer, returning via Seaton Hole and then to the Club’s finish line. No guesses as to the winners, No.22! The flooding tide served to slip back into the river rather than having to recover on the beach, even if the slipway was a little slippery…
The late afternoon return allowed for a more leisurely approach in packing away the boats, unlike the previous two evenings! With the regatta sailing completed, the event was rounded off with the traditional dinner and prize giving at the Ship. Again, running true to form, a splendid evening was had by all.
Results
2024 AOD 71st Regatta Results
60th Anniversary Cup – Line Honours
1st No. 22 Teal – Mike & Jane Calvert
2nd No.1 Whimbrel – Nigel Daniel
3rd No.8 Gemini – Bryan Davis
4th No.21 Tern – Ken & Morag Steven
5th No.26 Avocet – Iain Morison
70th Anniversary Cup – HC
1st No.22 Teal – Mike & Jane Calvert
2nd No.1 Whimbrel – Nigel Daniel
3rd No.8 Gemini – Bryan Davis
4th No.21 Tern – Ken & Morag Steven
5th No.26 Avocet – Iain Morison
The Originals Cup (three original AODs qualify : 1, 6 & 8.)
1st No.1 Whimbrel – Nigel Daniel
2nd No.8 Gemini – Bryan Davis
As ever, our thanks go to Wilf & Carol – our stalwart Race Officers.