Splash July 2026
Published 17:28 on 9 Jul 2026
Summer weather has certainly kept us guessing. One week drifting around in barely enough wind to move, and the next, mild survival sailing. Either way, there has been plenty going on both on and off the water and at the club.
Sailing Summary
A shifted jet stream and unusually warm weather have certainly kept sailors on their toes, with Sunday racing producing either "drifters" or "roaring Force 5+" conditions. The first Wednesday evening series turned into the former.
For Independence Day racing, Sam and Michael's RS800 broke a fifth pole again before racing, but HBSC members came to the rescue by lending them a Laser 2000. Once again the wind was light with 13 boats on the water and 10 racing. The start of Race 1 was messy, with many boats late reaching the line in the light airs, but Brian and Maria took the win ahead of Michael and Sam, with Allan first in the Laser fleet.
Race 2 found stronger wind further offshore, allowing Michael and Sam to turn the tables ahead of Tony and Joe, while Allan continued another strong race. Gordon eventually decided enough was enough, taking an unexpected swim at the gybe mark and leaving Karl to recover both Gordon and the kite - metaphorically and literally.
Race 3 produced the best start of the day, with 10 boats on the line. Michael and Sam completed the hat-trick, Allan was second, and Tony and Joe rounded off another good afternoon.
Tales from Lester
Lester's adventure has now taken Helena through the Caledonian Canal and steadily back down the west coast towards home.
Recent stops have included Islay, Rathlin Island, Lundy, Padstow and Plymouth.
There have been dolphins, puffins, friendly harbour masters, a couple of failed attempts at reaching Lundy, and an unexpected night in Bude's harbour lock after the gates were closed due to the dry weather.
As always, the reports continue to alternate between stunning scenery and "it seemed like a good idea at the time."
We're fairly sure he's keeping the most amusing disasters back for his Friday evening talk...
Around the Club
Peter and Dan returned safely from a trip out to the wind farm. A fresh north-easterly and a bumpy trip of around 12 miles made for a couple of hours fun on the water.
Peter has also just returned from a sailing week in the Solent supporting visually impaired sailors. As part of a fleet of 23 boats, they covered over 200 miles while visiting some lovely places around the Solent.
Duncan is looking at returning to HBSC with his Hornet and is on the lookout for crew. Some members may remember him from the Hornet European & National Championships hosted by HBSC in 2016.
In the Bar
In his Friday Fireside Chat on Racing Rules, Laurie somehow managed to make "boring interesting", attracting around 25 people, including visitors from Hampton and Tankerton Bay Sailing Clubs.
This Friday it's Brian's turn with an informal session on sail and boat trim. Grab a drink, pull up a chair, and there will also be street-style chilli and rice available from the galley.
We've got a huge amount of sailing experience around the club. If there's a subject you'd like covered, or perhaps one you'd be happy to share yourself, let us know.
Top Tips
Weather Helm (when your boat keeps trying to turn into the wind) - As Laurie explained: Applying the downhaul moves the centre of effort forward, while lifting the daggerboard reduces lateral resistance. Together they should help keep the boat on course!
Friendly Harbour Masters - Sometimes asking nicely works when you arrive late... You might even get to moor in the lock overnight!
Cadet Corner
Club Week returns on Wednesday 26th August with three days of Cadet activities followed by the Club Cruise on Saturday 29th August.
More details and booking information will be coming out shortly, but thank you to everyone who has already volunteered to help.
What's Coming Up
Friday 10th July
Brian's Friday Fireside Chat - Sail and Boat Trim.
Street-style chilli and rice available from the galley.
Saturday 11th July
Open Sailing and Improvers.
Sunday 12th July
Club Racing.
Wednesday 15th July
Midweek Series Racing.
Remember to check the full calendar online: https://hernebaysailingclub.co.uk
Thank you to everybody who gives up their time to make these things happen.
Volunteering is the beating heart of our club. Every race, sailing day and social event only happens because people give up a little of their time to help others.
Many hands make great sailing.
See you on the wet bit (you know, the sea or the corner of the bar!)
Last updated 17:28 on 9 July 2026