THE annual Peter Bartlett Youth Regatta took place at Roadford Lake earlier this month with 18 sailors taking to the water and competing in two fleets – beginner and advanced.

Each year the event aims to introduce new sailors to racing and support and encourage those looking to improve their skills.

Peter Bartlett MBE, the first Patron of South West Lakes Trust, held the position of Chairman of the Royal Yachting Association for the South West region for 15 years. As past Commodore of Brixham Yacht Club he promoted watersports for disabled people and emphasised that age should not be a barrier in taking up sailing.

The conditions were tricky, especially in the afternoon with a very brisk southerly wind to contend with. This provided some great racing for the youngsters, many of whom learnt to sail with RYA OnBoard, the scheme that introduces children of all backgrounds and abilities to sailing and windsurfing.

Following some exciting racing, Peter Bartlett presented the winners with their trophies and prizes. 

Sarah Hallett, who co-ordinated the event at Roadford, said the regatta is the highlight of the youth sailing calendar at Roadford for many young sailors.

‘By providing a supportive and encouraging environment our aim is to raise aspirations to take part in racing and develop relevant skills across a range of ages and abilities,’ she said. 

List of winners: Beginner Fleet — 1,    Arne Hamer (Tamar Lake) and Charlotte Baars (West Wilts); 2,  Harvey Holmes (Roadford) and Josh Warburton (Roadford); 3, Tolly Hill (Roadford). Advanced — 1, Luca Guyon (Roadford ) and Connor Myers (Brixham); 2, Rosie Duncan (Roadford), Daisy Duncan (Roadford) and Jonathon Griffiths (Roadford); 3, Dan Britten (Roadford) and Edward Thiselton-Dyer (Roadford).