Navigating the Challenge of the Celtic Triangle Race
Challenging weather conditions characterized the second leg of the Yachting Monthly Celtic Triangle race this year, leading to an unexpected high rate of retirements. Out of the original fleet, nine competitors chose to withdraw, leaving 23 determined contestants to brave the elements and reach Tréguier. Many of those who retired didn’t let the weather dampen their spirits; they opted to continue under engine power, with a few heading back to Falmouth or their respective home ports.
Race Results Overview
Despite the tough conditions, the race showcased some impressive sailing. Division One was dominated once again by Il Corvo, the JPK 1030 crewed by Roeland Franssens and Astrid de Vin. They completed the challenging 300-mile course in 1 day, 21 hours, 59 minutes, and 52 seconds, finishing just before 10 AM on Sunday, June 5. Following closely behind was the Sunfast 3300 Kestrel. Division Two saw victory for JPK 10.10 Joy, handled by Dave Butters and Ian Braham, while Maxi 1100 AmyLou, helmed by Gary Heward and Russell Hawkins, took top honors in Division Three. The last crew to cross the finish line was Starlight 39 Ossian, sailed by Tim Greenway and Steve Leigh, who persevered through light winds, arriving just in time for a well-deserved beer in Tréguier.
Battling the Elements
The journey from Falmouth to Tréguier is no easy feat. Stretching 300 nautical miles offshore, it involves navigating busy shipping lanes, strong tidal currents, and a treacherous seascape that can quickly turn against sailors. Unfortunately, the weather this year created an agonizing situation for many. Almost half the fleet ultimately opted for safety, engaging their engines to head into port for a well-earned cold drink.
Insights from the Fleet
Jayne Toyne, sailing aboard J105 Jaldi, provided an insightful account of the conditions. “Leg two started out wet, but with a decent breeze from the south. As the wind shifted to the west, it became a genuine downwind leg, which favored some boats while others struggled.” She described the leg as a race divided: those who managed to cross the finish line before the wind died down and those left flailing in the heavy swell.
The fastest boats finished in the early afternoon, while others found themselves thwarted by the dying winds, leaving them to deal with wallowing seas and slatting sails. Damage reports included tacks pulled out of cruising chutes and goosenecks broken due to the lack of wind. As the tide turned foul, the decisions to continue or retire weighed heavily on the crews.
A Sense of Community
The spirit of the Celtic Triangle transcended the competition itself. Jayne noted, “The decision to retire came around sunrise for eight boats, mostly from class three. However, the Celtic Triangle is as much about what happens on land as it is about the sea. We all looked forward to the hog roast and petanque tournament against the locals, eager to indulge in fine French food.”
Upon arrival in Tréguier, the warm welcome was reminiscent of the event’s communal ethos. Crews were guided to their berths by enthusiastic marina staff, igniting a friendly atmosphere that seemed universal across the fleet.
Culinary Delights and Marine Adventures
Onboard meals became a highlight for many. Provisions from Kinsale allowed crews with cooking facilities to whip up fresh steaks accompanied by potatoes and beans. Meanwhile, everyone enjoyed the spectacle of dolphins playing in the clear waters of the western Channel, enhancing their offshore experience with a touch of nature’s tapestry.
Solo Sailing Stories
Among the competitors was David Faucher, the only French participant sailing single-handed on his Rustler 36, Ventura. He expressed mixed feelings about the weather: “Yesterday, the wind was perfect, and I was hitting 7 knots! Today, though, the winds dropped.” Despite retiring, he remarked positively about the hospitality and camaraderie he felt at the ports.
Another notable solo sailor was British competitor Nigel Colley, who came out of racing retirement for this event. He recounted his challenges and triumphs during the race, feeling a sense of kinship despite sailing alone. “It gets tough sometimes, but crossing that finish line erases those worries,” he stated. His experience illustrated the bond formed among sailors, where mutual support resonates both at sea and ashore.
Reflections from Other Sailors
Oliver Grogono, sailing Kestrel, shared his perspective on short-handed racing as well. He noted, “It’s a unique experience where you push through fatigue, driven by adrenaline.” The conditions forced competitors to adapt quickly, balancing the need for rest with strategic timing around wind shifts.
The Revival of a Classic Event
The Yachting Monthly Celtic Triangle race, re-established seven years after its last edition, is a revival that many enthusiasts have long awaited. Originally launched in 1984, the race brings together both seasoned racers and amateur sailors seeking adventure. It is designed to be approachable and competitive, fostering a spirit of friendship among participants.
The triangular course entails legs stretching from Falmouth to Kinsale (approximately 190 nautical miles), Kinsale to Tréguier (300 nautical miles), and finally, Tréguier back to Falmouth (110 nautical miles). The second leg serves not just as a test but as a qualifier for the upcoming Azores and Back Race (AZAB) in 2027, making it a significant pursuit for those serious about offshore racing.