Keelboat Weekend Survives Storm Amy !

Published 15:38 on 7 Oct 2025

Keelboat Weekend provided an epic end to the regular season as the arrival of Storm Amy on the Friday brought gusts at the club well over 50 knots and large breaking waves on shore. Friday evening found several club members helping to clear fallen trees blocking the road to the club outside Balmaha. 41 boats had entered over four fleets - K1s for their Scottish Championship, Flying Fifteens, Hawks and Keelboat handicap, although in the event, quite a few of the entrants decided not to travel. On Saturday the wind remained strong and stormy at times, and a power cut whilst our fantastic catering team led by Tajana Hepplewhite were preparing a dinner for 80 people was less than ideal. Fortunately, the power was back quickly, and while there was no sailing, members and visitors enjoyed an excellent dinner and an evening in the bar. 

On Sunday the wind moderated enough to allow three races, though the wind in the gusts was still at the very upper end of sailable conditions especially in the first race. Many competitors decided discretion was the better part of valour and stayed onshore, while several others ventured out and returned without racing. Well done to the seven competitors who completed at least one race, and the race team and RIB crews for putting on racing in very difficult conditions!

Yachts and Yachting report on the K1 Scottish Championships is HERE

Last updated 15:43 on 7 October 2025