Bees round a honey pot - the Phantom class reflect on the RYA Dinghy & Watersports Show
by Mike Webster 27 Feb 2025 07:00 UTC
22-23 February 2025
The Phantom Class were delighted with the interest the stand created at the Dinghy show last weekend.
The two boat display featuring new and old, Jon Rickard's brand new still to be launched Ovington build and Allen fit out and the beautiful John Claridge Woodie. Who would have thought it was 35 years old! It's proud owner Alan Husk was on hand talking through the renovation project which included a James Jarvey re-deck. We all thought it was a clear winner for the Concours d'Elegance prize, judged by Stevie Morrison and Mark Jardine at the show, but it was not to be this year.
Both boats attracted the crowds particularly the classic woodie with its tactile lines and gorgeous gloss mahogany finish and it was like bees round a honey pot at some stages during the weekend!
As promised the show was our launch pad for opening the entries to our Championships and Super Series, which have already started rolling in.
If it's your first time in 2025 or you are a seasoned championships sailor get your entries in... Don't hold back!
Goat Marine National Championships 19th -21st September
www.phantomclass.org.uk
goatmarine.co.uk
P&B Inland Championships 6th - 7th June
www.burtonsailingclub.co.uk/index.php/open-meetings
www.pinbax.com
GJW Direct Super Series April - October
www.gjwdirect.com
The class had lots of interest from sailing clubs wanting to host our National Championships in the future, such is the popularity of the class. The Nationals rolling programme is already booked up until 2027 but we will continue to source great locations for our future championship venues. If your club is interested in being considered in hosting a future Phantom National or Inland Championships please contact us via the class website.
The other big launch at the show was the classes new branded 'Phantom Sailing' merchandise which was on display and fashioned by stand volunteers. The rash vests, tee shirts, baseball caps, cool water bottles and car stickers are all now available to purchase on the phantom class website in the 'shop' section at very reasonable prices. So get your orders in at www.phantomclass.org.uk
On the final day Rob Cook - Phantom Class Association Chairman made a very special presentation to Phil Longley, a long service award as previous Chairman. Rob thanked Phil on behalf of the classes members for his hard work and dedication to the association which spanned over ten years. Phil was delighted to receive the award along with a bottle of his favourite tipple.
He said, "He has many happy memories during his tenure as Chairman, with his favourite probably being hosting the Phantom National Championships at Stone SC, his home club, in 2021 - the Phantom's 50th anniversary year."
#ItIsUnreal