Exciting Racing at the Keelboat Endeavour 2024: Flying Fifteen Claims Victory
The Keelboat Endeavour at the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club proved to be a thrilling and tightly contested event over the weekend of April 20th and 21st, 2024. Ben McGrane, crewed by Russ Clark, Jamie Stewart, and James Ross, representing the Flying Fifteen class, emerged victorious after 30 races sailed in perfect conditions.
The fleet of five 707 boats, refurbished by Allen Brothers and equipped with new running rigging from Robline, provided the perfect platform for the ten teams competing for the newly created Robin Judah Trophy. This trophy was commissioned in memory of Robin Judah, a founding member of the original Endeavour Trophy for dinghies and an Olympic sailor in the Dragon class in 1968.
The competition was fierce, with local Dragon sailor Mark Wade initially leading after the first 10 races. However, the Flying Fifteen team, helmed by Ben McGrane, made a strong comeback on the second day to secure the overall victory. The Sonata team, helmed by Joe Cross, and the 707 crew also put up a strong fight, finishing in second and third place respectively.
The perfectly matched boats and ideal sailing conditions made for an impressive weekend of racing, with each team giving their all to claim the prestigious trophy. The close competition and high level of skill on display kept spectators on the edge of their seats throughout the event.
Overall, the Keelboat Endeavour at the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club was a resounding success, showcasing the talent and dedication of the sailors involved. Congratulations to Ben McGrane and his team on their well-deserved victory, and here’s to many more exciting races in the future.