Grey skies and light winds initially welcomed competitors to the annual Baltic Exchange Sailing Association Seaview Regatta, which took place on 16-17 May on the Isle of Wight. Despite the modest turnout of six entries from MOL, Fulmar, and the Baltic Exchange, along with private entries from S. Cox (Cox’s Privateers), the anticipation was high as the participants rigged up their boats.

Click here to view photos from the event.

As the day progressed, the skies cleared, and a steady breeze of 8-10 kt set the perfect conditions for the first of seven races around the Seaview cans. S. Cox started strong, clinching victories in the first two races. MOL followed closely in second place for both, with Fulmar 1 securing third.

The third race witnessed Fulmar 2, helmed by former Olympic candidate and now broker, Calum Healey, gaining momentum, leveraging the morning races to recover from the Chairman's Cocktail Party the night before. By the end of day one, S. Cox led with 4 points, MOL had 7 points, and Fulmar 2 was in third with 9 points before discards.

Following the races, competitors enjoyed drinks in the sun on the deck before donning formal attire for a delightful evening of drinks and dinner at the Seaview Yacht Club. A raffle during the evening raised £380 for the Baltic Exchange’s lifeboat with the RNLI, thanks to the generous contributions of many.

Day two began with competitors waking up to champagne sailing conditions. With four races scheduled, the day promised fierce competition. The first race saw S. Cox execute a flawless port flyer, securing another win. Race five brought a victory for Fulmar 2, with MOL in second place.

Post-lunch racing saw Fulmar 2 clinch another win, narrowly beating S. Cox at the finish line. With one discard in play, the standings were tight: S. Cox led with 7 points, Fulmar 2 had 9 points, and MOL was third with 12 points.

The final race was a nail-biter, with match racing tactics at the start. MOL initially led but was overtaken by Fulmar 2 on the penultimate leg. Fulmar 2's victory in the last race tied them with S. Cox at 10 points each. Applying count-back rules, Fulmar 2 emerged victorious, with S. Cox securing the privateers trophy.

Special thanks to the Baltic Exchange for their continued support, alongside Fulmar, Baltic Exchange staff, MOL, and S. Cox for donating race prizes. Heartfelt gratitude also goes to the Sea View Yacht Club for hosting another memorable event. We look forward to seeing everyone next year.

--

Overall Results After 1 Discard:

Fulmar 2 - 10 points

Cox’s Privateers - 10 points

MOL - 14 points

Fulmar 1 - 17 points

Baltic 2 - 32 points

Baltic 1 - 33 points

--

For full results, please head to www.balticexchangesailing.org