It’s been an incredible sporting summer so far, and it looks set to continue with two of the UK’s biggest sporting events kicking off over the weekend: the 30th RS400 national championships and the return of the Premier League!
A plethora of former winners and runners-up, with a sprinkling of superstars from other leagues/fleets means this looks set to be one of the most hotly contested championships of the for many years. Let’s take a look at some of the combined chances of the likely front runners…
Man City – Edd Whitehead & Ben Whaley
Packed with talent and proven winners in any competition they choose to enter (1 & 2 at the 200 champs), the current holders are going to be tough to beat and are adept at pulling out a result when they need it. Going to be in the mix whoever challenges them and probably the favourites to get the job done
Spurs – Ollie Groves & Esther Parkhurst
Bags of talent, a ton of promise and always in the for the top spot – until they’re not. Have been off to new audiences in the pre-season with some success (congrats on the 2k champs!) could this be the year they finally get it over the line?
Aston Villa – Tom Halhead & Paul Hilliar
Used to be regular challengers back in the early days, now back to where they feel they should be and absolutely capable of taking the title if things go their way. Although they haven’t done it as a team, there’s plenty of championship-winning experience to call upon.
Newcastle – Stewart Robertson & Sarah Robertson
One of the most established teams going back through the years, suffered through some lean times of late but recent results have them back on top and could spring a surprise if they find form at the right time
Man Utd – Nick Craig & Adam Craig
Almost unbeatable through the late 90s and 00s before inexplicably deciding to pursue new directions. Showed up at the end of the last season to take one of the major trophies, and looking to a combination of experience and youth to push for the top spot
Liverpool – Sam Knight & Chris Bownes
Finally got a championship over the line a few years ago but struggled to hit the heights since. If they bring their ‘A’ game they’re capable of beating anyone on the day, can they string it together over the length of the competition?
Leicester – Jon Gorringe & Toby Lewis
Won once a few years ago, then disappeared. Back in the big time now and looking good, an experienced team with a winning mentality – they could well be there at the end
Arsenal – Ian Martin & Chris Martin
Looking more and more dangerous, plenty of pedigree and really challenging for the podium positions. An unknown quantity when the going really gets tough, but probably have the know-how to sustain a serious challenge for the title.
Chelsea – Jack Holden & Rob Henderson
Full of potential, mostly bought in from other teams but bringing it all together as one could be deadly if they can successfully bring all that talent to the fore. Not stand-out last season, but capable of running away with the champs if the stars align.
Brighton – Christopher Eames & Rachel Tilley
Surprised everyone in their first season and now an established team, possibly not expecting to challenge for the very top spot but have the potential to beat anyone to come away with a top result come the end of the championship.
Bournemouth – Chris Webber & Nicki Webber
Quietly going about their business, with the right conditions this team can string together a run of top results meaning its likely they’ll have an influence on the eventual outcome, even if they’re not fighting right at the top. Expect to see their names in lights a few times over the championship!
The winners may well come from the list above, but for the vast majority of the fleet the championships are an opportunity to come together and share our love of the class and sport.
While the racing commences on the 19th August, the day before is reserved for class training and welcoming the fleet to the fantastic Royal Torbay Yacht Club.
During the week there will be a Buddy Group quiz, model boat racing and more, all cumulating in the final night prize-giving and dinner with live music!
Event website: www.rs400.org/championships/index.asp?eid=2488
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