Every year for the last decade, a small group of our windsurfing members enter the world’s most historic windsurfing event called the Weymouth Speed Week. It is a test for any type of craft that is powered by wind to propeller themselves down a speed course over 500mtrs to acquire a top average speed.

This year the normal group of Crosby Twins and John Oliver, persuaded fellow member Matt Lilley to join them on the quest to go faster than he had ever been before. The event draws an international field of competitors, from all over the world and includes famous professionals, current Olympians and a good selection of amateur hotshots from the British Isles and the continent.

This year the event was not as consistently windy compared to previous years, however the very last day produced 37kt winds which is perfect for all to push themselves.

As Matt was a first timer in the Amateur fleet, he did very well to get 3rd place in the ‘First timer’s Category with an average speed of 28.96kts. No doubt he will be one to watch in the future, being an accomplished windsurfer and amazed at the standard of sailing he viewed on show at the event. The Crosby twins had a modest standing in the competition competing in the Gold fleet which is a promoted fleet up from the amateurs for achieving amateur podium places in the past. Peter achieving 29.85kts and Richard with 30.49kts this week.

However, our long-standing club speed champion John Oliver, excelled to achieve what he has deserved over a long-spirited effort of many years and topped the podium of the Gold Fleet to take 1st place with an average of 33.28kts. This accomplishment places him to compete at professional fleet level from there on and won an automatic paid entry to the Prince of Speed event in the south of France next year. Well done John, you have been a great advocate to promote Speed sailing at our club and justifiably your persistence has paid off with this triumphant victory.

For any new or existing club member that likes the sound of pushing their skills to a personal best, please approach one of our club competitors who will only be too pleased to offer good advice and guidance to help you to Warp speed.