The 2025 Gwen Slade Women’s Regatta was sailed on Sunday in a light nor’wester, with seven Etchells on the start line. The fleet included a mix of experienced and new skippers, and the racing was tight across all three races.
Returning champions Bayley Taylor and Alice Lydement were joined by first-time skippers Emily McCutcheon and Simone Wood-Hanson, as well as returning competitors Jenny Danks, Liz Charles, and Ellie Hobbs.
Race 1 saw Taylor narrowly beat Danks by just two seconds.
Race 2 was abandoned due to the wind dropping out near the top mark, making it impossible for the fleet to complete the course within the 45-minute time limit.
Race 3 was won by newcomer Emily McCutcheon, with Danks in third and Taylor fourth.
With Danks and Taylor finishing on equal points from the two completed races, the overall result was decided on countback. Taylor’s win in Race 1 gave her the edge, securing her a second Gwen Slade title.
A separate Elliott 7 fleet also raced alongside the Gwen Slade series for the first time, getting more women involved and adding to the day’s activity on the water. Belle Holdsworth led the charge in the Elliott fleet, delivering wins in Race 1 and Race 3 (Race 2 ABN).
Thanks to the boat owners for making their yachts available, and to Paul Slade for presenting the prizes. Special mention to David Taylor for taking on the pairing of boats and helm, and a big thank you to our Race Committee Volunteers, Rob McClelland (RPAYC Commodore), Virginia McClelland and Liam Bennett!
Congratulations to all skippers and crews on a close and well-sailed regatta.
Next on the calendar is our exciting inaugural Kay Cottee Women’s Development Regatta Sunday 29 June – a day of fun, learning, and friendly competition on the water! The Kay Cottee Women’s Development Regatta is all about building confidence, developing sailing skills, and giving recent Sailing Academy graduates a chance to experience the excitement of racing in a supportive and welcoming environment. The regatta will be sailed on the club’s fleet of Elliott 7s and is aimed at female sailors looking to break into the world of racing. Find out more and join in HERE.
