Seventeen year old Sutton Bingham Sailing Club sailor, Andrew Frost is celebrating after winning his division at the RS Aero World Championship held at Carnac in France. The Championship attracted 96 entries from 4 continents and Frost triumphed in the 20 strong “5 Rig” division. He out-sailed tough competition from two Estonian sailors, Kate Sargent from the UK and fellow Sutton Bingham member, Ben Poe who finished a highly commendable 5th overall.
The venue provided champagne sailing conditions with 16-25 mph breeze throughout the week.
On the first day, the Estonians were placed first and third , with Frost in second, with a 1st, 4th and 3rd.
As the week progressed Frost reported “my technique on the waves improved, enabling me to match the speed of the Estonians upwind and out pace them downwind for the rest of the week,”
On day two Frost posted a 1st and two 3rds to hold onto 2nd overall, with just two points separating the first three places. On day three a 3rd and two 1sts moved Frost up to overnight leader, giving him honour of wearing the yellow jersey which was awarded at the daily prize giving. On day four he scored an impressive 2nd and two “bullets” extending the points difference with the Estonians, which meant he was far enough ahead to win the regatta with a day to spare! Compatriot Ben Poe scored a string of 5th places and a 3rd on the first day of the event.
After the event Frost commented, “I can’t quite believe that I’ve won the first RS Aero World Championship at such a young age. It feels amazing! The week has been incredible with perfect weather for sailing and I’ve really enjoyed meeting and sailing against so many new people from so many countries.” Frost was supported with a bursary from the Rotary Club of Sherborne which helped fund his Worlds campaign. He is looking forward to defending his title on home waters at Weymouth in 2018.
Meanwhile, seasoned Laser dinghy campaigner, Chris Jones, also from Sutton Bingham, who stepped into the RS Aero class this season, battled it out in the “7 Rig” division. Jones was delighted to finish 13th overall from 62 entries and 3rd Master (55 yrs+). He scored an 8th place on the first day and a string of results just outside the top 10.
Jones commented, “this week has been the most enjoyable week of sailing I can remember; exhilarating conditions, great comradery amongst the international fleet and a vibrant social scene, enjoying the French hospitality in Carnac.” Jones is currently supported by LED Leisure, who manage Goldenstones and Westlands Sports Centre, through help with fitness conditioning facilities. Later this year he will compete in the prestigious “champion of champions” Endeavour Trophy having won the Comet Nationals last season.
Report by Chris Jones, Spinnaker Marketing