Whitstable awaits the fleet for what should hopefully be the biggest B14 Nationals since 2003. Whatever the weather throws at us, it should be cracking event. One trophy that will be hotly contested, will be the new Endeavour Trophy awarded to the highest score boat finishing all races- so no matter how you're doing it might be worth carrying on regardless.
To spice it up we have also split the fleet into 5 regions and all boats entering from that region, their aggregate score will be the deal maker or breaker. So the team is only as good as its weakest link. The question is, who will be applying for a transfer?
The forecast is looking rather spicy, favouring the heavier teams, which will please many after the light airs of last year. All we need is a bit of RNR sun as well.
Whitstable is laying on its usual hospitality with the bar being raised by the fleet. Leakster has been working on the socials, so we will no doubt be in for a memorable event, and the crews union will be vigilant for any infractions.
The fleet's top guns are looking to thrash it out over the three days, and if Stokes Bay TT last is anything to go by, it should be a tight series.
Favourites going into the event have to be Blue Badge (Mike Bees/Martyn Worth (Ferret)) who will be hounded by Seavolution 1 (Mark Barnes/Jeremy Williamson), Team Ullman (Mark Watts/Chris Bishop), The Anthill Mob (Tim Harrison/Johnny Ratcliffe), Team Neil Pryde (Mark Emmett/Allan Stuart) and Team Marlow (Dan Cowin/Dan Hollands).
If the breeze goes light then the team to beat will be Team Harken (Simon Hadley/Nikki Hadley) and Seavolution 2 (Steve Hollingsworth/Elliot Holman).
Race reports will be heading in daily with some feedback on the previous evening's entertainment. It will be interesting to see who excels at both!
With loads of prizes up for grabs, over £1,000, there should be some rich pickings for many teams. Thanks for sponsorship goes to the Title Sponsor Ullman Sails and Tier 2 sponsors, Advantage Sails, Harken, DEM Foils, Marlow and Seavolution.