Get ready to dive into the thrilling world of sailing, where the 2026 County Cooler event at Notts County Sailing Club proved to be a spectacular showcase of skill and strategy! But here's the kicker: despite the chilly name, the weather was surprisingly kind, offering a rare winter weekend of sunshine and moderate winds.
Held on the 24th and 25th of January, this event attracted over twenty dinghies and ten windsurfers, creating a vibrant atmosphere on the water. Race Officer Martin Hayhoe designed a double beat course with reaches and near runs, ensuring a dynamic challenge for the handicap fleet. And the results? They were as varied as the course itself, with different sailors dominating each race.
And this is the part most people miss: the tight competition. Jake Willars in a Phantom took the first race, while Kevin Hope and Andy Stewart in a Fireball secured the second. Jamie Mawson in an RS600 consistently claimed third place on Saturday. The day's final race saw Kevin and Andy take the lead, followed by Christine Statham in an ILCA 6 and Jake Willars. With only a few points separating the top contenders, Sunday promised to be a nail-biter.
Sunday brought drizzle and lighter winds, but the competition heated up. Jamie Mawson dominated, winning both races, with Kevin and Andy close behind. Jake Willars secured third and fourth places. In the end, Kevin and Andy clinched the overall win by a single point over Jamie Mawson, with Jake just a few points behind. Hayden Moore (Notts County) in an Aero claimed the first youth title, while Christine Statham was the top lady sailor.
The windsurfers, primarily from Burton Sailing Club, showcased their skills across different classes. Gerry Ball from Notts County dominated the Raceboard unlimited class with five straight wins, while Benjamin Boles (Burton) swept the Techno fleet, winning every race. Esme Hartsell (Burton) consistently placed second or third in the Techno races, highlighting the young talent emerging in the sport.
But here's where it gets controversial: While the event celebrated individual victories, it also raised questions about the balance between experienced and youth sailors. Should there be more categories to ensure fair competition across all skill levels? Or is the current format the best way to foster growth and challenge sailors of all ages?
For more stunning visuals of the event, visit www.ncsc.org.uk/county-cooler-2026. And don't forget, the Midlands Winter Series continues with exciting events at Ogston SC, Staunton Harold SC, and Burton SC. Mark your calendars and join the action!
What’s your take? Do you think the current sailing event formats are fair, or is there room for improvement? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let’s spark a conversation!
