Savills offices in Guernsey and Jersey were delighted to once again sponsor the annual Inter-Island Yacht Race.
The event is the largest race in the Channel Islands' sailing calendar and the 58th edition was held in bright sunshine and light winds on Saturday, 24 June.
The boats sailed from Jersey to Guernsey this year and because of the calm conditions the decision was taken to shorten the course, moving the start line to St Ouen’s Bay from its customary St Aubin’s.
The light winds saw many of the 56 boats struggling to clear the start line, with those heading north in search of more breeze generally faring better.
The wind filled in as the race progressed, enabling most boats to make good progress under spinnaker. However, contrary to the forecast, it once again died away, meaning many boats were becalmed for some time with the tide having turned against them.
Guernsey boat Blackjack, sailed by Martin Ozard and his crew, led the fleet for most of the way but, after passing Lower Heads buoy, ran out of wind, enabling Jersey’s Rhys Perkins and his crew in Abracadabra to pass and take the honours. Blackjack finished second, with Jersey’s Alex Ohlsson and crew finishing third in Jai Ho.
The winner of the Sir James Knott trophy, awarded to the top three boats from Guernsey or Jersey, was this year won by Jersey, with Abracadabra, Jai Ho and Jewel (skippered by Jeff Chinn) beating Blackjack, Sun of a Gun 3 and Killing Time. The team trophy was won by Guernsey’s Sarnia Jays – Blackjack, Majic and Jostler – being the three best placed boats in any nominated team.
A full list of the finishers together with other class prize winners can be found here.
Savills has agreed to sponsor the Inter-Island Yacht Race until 2024. Last year's race was first time Savills has supported the event and was a huge success.
Stuart Leslie, head of residential sales at Savills Guernsey, said: “It was a wonderful day and we were delighted to be involved. Despite the challenging conditions, most competitors arrived at the Guernsey Yacht Club in good time to enjoy liquid refreshments and supper in the evening, followed by the prizegiving.”
Geri O’Brien, head of residential sales at Savills Jersey, added: “The race epitomises everything that is so great about our two islands – bringing people together for a day of fun and competitive racing. Congratulations to all those who took part. We can’t wait to do it all again next year.”