Just add water – Brent Regatta celebrates the refilled Welsh Harp

Photo – A moment of sunshine, the kingdom in the background. Junior Instructor Nico, Social Secretary Vivien, Mayor Brent Tariq Dar, Juniors Alex and Zach. Credit Anita Whittaker WHSC

Liz Guest, Commodore at WHSC, resumes the story:

surfing

More than 50 sailors took to the water on Saturday 15 June in extremely difficult conditions of strong winds. Those from the home club were joined by others from Harp, as well as some of the clubs that generously provided a temporary home for WHSC sailors during the closure – Fishers Green Sailing Club, Broadwater Sailing Club (BSC) and King George Sailing Club. A strong sense of community has developed with these clubs and it is hoped that the foundations of long lasting relationships have been laid.

Seven intrepid juniors, Fergus, Zach, Alexander, Julian, Albert and Hansel also braved the water. The safety boats were kept busy with capsizes as gust after gust came through.

The winners of the 90 minute chase race were Keith Street & Liz Guest (GP14) from WHSC, visitor Andy Cooney (Aero 5) from BSC second and Roger Wilson (ILCA 7) from WHSC third.

Photo – Adeel Khan and Roger Jeffs, credit Joy Walter WHSC

From navigation to social

Over 100 attended the post-sailing social where there was a real sense of celebration and long-time friends were reunited after a long time apart. The Mayor of Brent, Tariq Dar, attended to present the awards and made a very special day feel extra special.

All the usual sailing, windsurfing and paddling activities have now resumed at the five WHSA clubs based at The Harp.

“We are delighted to be back on the water and to see such a fantastic turnout at the Brent Regatta,” said Steve Cooper, event organizer and WHSC Rear Commodore. “This marks the beginning of our activities and we look forward to welcoming both seasoned sailors and newcomers to the Harp.”

Maintenance schedule

The seven-month maintenance program undertaken by the Canal and River Trust (CRT) was highly involved, complicated by the condition of the reservoir and the strict regulations and requirements of the many bodies concerned. In addition to improving the dam’s infrastructure, CRT also used the work as an opportunity to invest in the Harp’s future, improving the environment as well as creating solid foundations for ongoing relationships with all stakeholders, including a Roots community. Program for Brent residents.

Photo – Wembley Stadium background, credit Joy Walter WHSC

Thanks…..

The Welsh Harp Sailing Association is grateful to all participants, the Mayor and the community for their support in making the Brent Regatta a resounding success. We invite everyone to join us at our upcoming events and experience the joy of sailing, windsurfing and paddling at the new Welsh Harp Reservoir.

London’s best kept secret

Through its five constituent clubs, The Welsh Harp Sailing Association, located in North West London, offers a wide range of sailing, windsurfing and rowing activities for all ages and skill levels and RYA training courses. With a rich history and commitment to promoting water sports, the WHSA provides a welcoming environment for enthusiasts to learn, compete and enjoy the thrill of being on the water. For more information about our activities, membership and upcoming events, please visit our website

Selected results:

• 1st: Keith Street and Liz Guest (GP14) WHSC
• 2nd place: Andy Cooney (Aero 5) BSC
• 3rd place: Roger Wilson (ILCA 7) WHSC

WHSC sailing class winners:

• ILCA 7 – Roger Wilson (WHSC)
• ILCA 5 – Joe Noun (WHSC)
• GP14 – Keith Street and Liz Guest (WHSC)