70th Anniversary of the Kestrel - Specials

Happy New Year!

Firstly, many apologies for not having put a newsletter out for way too long. I had meant to get it out before Christmas, but circumstances intervened. It is being assembled and will be out fairly shortly. In the meantime, we wanted to share plans for the UK Nationals and the Kestrel’s 70th Anniversary celebrations!

Kestrel 70th/2025 UK Nationals

The Kestrel group prototype first sailed in the winter of 1955 at Llangorse Lake in Wales (why there, we have no idea), apparently with snow blowing horizontally across the lake. Production began in 1956, marking the start of what would become a truly iconic class. Stretching a point, the 70th anniversary of Proctor’s masterpiece (as it truly is) spans two years, beginning in 2025. Here’s how we plan to celebrate:

• A Travellers Trophy over the two years
• Cruises in company
• Kestrel merchandise

And, of course, a brilliant Nationals venue for 2025!

Nationals Venue and Details

We had hoped for Weymouth alongside our good friends the Hornets, but a change in club officers and logistical issues made us explore other options. Plas Heli was also considered but was deemed too costly and non-committal.

Thanks to Stewart’s efforts, we’re thrilled to announce that the 2025 Nationals will be held as part of Stone Week. The Shearwaters joined Stone Week in 2024 and had a fantastic time. This venue is well-known to us, having hosted two successful Nationals there in the last 15 years.

Highlights of Stone Week:

• Sail at any state of the tide, with two races a day and a lunch break (great galley service!)
• A hog roast one evening
• A two-course dinner on another evening
• Dinners to order on other nights
• Entertainment every night
• Plenty of free camping and motorhome space (no plug-ins)

For more details, visit Stone Sailing Club.

Key Dates

• Nationals: Monday, 4th August to Friday, 8th August 2025
• Championship races: Tuesday, 5th August to Friday, 8th August 2025

Maylandsea Week

In addition, the Maylandsea boats will be participating in Maylandsea Week, which runs from Saturday, 26th July to Wednesday, 30th July 2025. Camping is available at nominal cost with plug-ins. The cost for the week, including all evening food and entertainment last year, was £80 per head. Visitors are very welcome to join for two weeks on the Essex Riviera!

For more details, visit Maylandsea Bay Sailing Club.

We hope you’ll join us for these exciting events – you won’t be disappointed!

See you on the water!

Chris