Young sailors: Birds of prey take to the water

Following the successful start of the FM Northamptonshire Youth Series at Northampton SC a week earlier, the young sailors in the circuit met at Middle Nene SC in Thrapston for the next round on Saturday, 24th April 2026. The boats were divided into three fleets, named Osprey (Portsmouth Yardstick 1450+), Eagle (PY 1368/1369) and Falcon (PY up to 1367), and all were crewed by young sailors from 10 to 18 years old, covering a wide range of experience levels. In the event, juniors familiar with national championship racing sailed alongside intermediate competitors and first-timers. This wide spread of age and experience was catered for by a well-staffed regatta team and a number of support craft.