Grafham Sailors at the 2025 ILCA Masters Nationals:
Five Grafham Water sailors — plus one former member — made the trip to Hayling Island Sailing Club for the 2025 ILCA Masters Nationals. The event featured three days of racing, with eight races (one discard), split across two fleets: ILCA 7 (50 boats) and ILCA 6 (61 boats). Off the water, a busy social calendar added to the experience.
While the forecast promised tough conditions, the weather proved more forgiving than expected. Day 1 delivered 20–25 knots of breeze and some seriously big waves. Conditions eased for Days 2 and 3, with more manageable seas and winds ranging from 15–20 knots.
The ILCA Masters circuit (for sailors aged 30 and over) attracts a wide spectrum of competitors — from Olympic campaign veterans to enthusiastic club racers. Each sailor brings their own goals, whether it’s securing a solid result, staying upright in challenging conditions, or simply racing against peers at a similar level of experience.
The atmosphere across the fleet is friendly and supportive, and we encourage more Grafham sailors to join in future events — no matter your skill level. With competitors ranging up to 90 years old, there really is no age limit, and boat charters are readily available for those without an ILCA.
Club Member Results:
ILCA 7:
- David Gale – 26th
ILCA 6:
- (Phil Bevan – 13th)
- John Elder – 28th
- Ian Rawet – 36th
- Richard Major – 41st
- Peter Gee – 43rd
Report by John Elder