The Zenith Inland Championship 2026 at Blithfield Sailing Club was a thrilling spectacle, showcasing the rapid growth and excitement of the Zenith class. This event, sponsored by Hartley Boats, attracted 21 entries, including seven home boats, and a buzz that permeated the dinghy park. The fleet featured brand-new Zeniths 168 and 169 alongside the now "veteran" sail number 100, which had been around for 13 months. With 20 boats on the water, it was the largest Zenith fleet assembled to date, a testament to the class's popularity and potential.
The championship kicked off with a tuning session led by Hartley Boats sailmaker Steve Graham, who delivered constructive criticism under the watchful eye of Mark Hartley, the birthday boy. This session proved invaluable, with helmsmen making lightbulb moments and hurried rig adjustments. The evening brought more Zeniths from distant locations like Berwick-upon-Tweed and Barcelona, but the weather took a turn, with rain and strong winds soaking the sailors.
Saturday's racing was a tactical affair in a tricky 4-10 knot easterly breeze. Richard Instone of Chase SC took the first race, with Stuart Turnbull of Burton SC second and Michael Alexander of Rutland third. The second race was a close finish, with home sailor Sam Watson snatching victory from Simon Johnson of Carsington SC at the final mark. Steve Hendon in 151 completed the top three.
As the breeze built, the racing intensified. Mark Hartley hit back in Race 3 after making rig changes, taking the win ahead of Sam Watson and Richard Instone. This pattern continued throughout the weekend, with Mark and Sam trading wins. The final race saw a dominant home-club 1-2-3 by Sam, Mark, and Steve, further cementing Blithfield's status as the spiritual home of the Zenith.
The championship was not just about racing; it was a social affair. Peter, donning the famous apron, took charge of the barbecue, while Richard Instone hosted a sailing-themed quiz, much to everyone's amusement when Mark Hartley managed to get several answers wrong. The prize-giving was generous, with spot prizes for everything from brilliance to bad luck, and Diane's cakes disappeared quickly.
The atmosphere was consistently good-humored, with close racing and constant banter both afloat and ashore. Despite the fleet size, racing remained tight, with often little more than a leg separating first from twentieth. One mistake could cost five places, and two mistakes could dump you at the back. This made for spectacular racing throughout.
In conclusion, the Zenith Inland Championship 2026 at Blithfield Sailing Club was a resounding success, showcasing the Zenith class's potential and the passion of its sailors. The event left a lasting impression, with its tight racing, good humor, and generous prizes. It was a testament to the class's rapid growth and the dedication of its participants, leaving everyone eager for the next installment.
