Glorious autumn weather greeted young competitors from all around West Wales as they arrived at Llanion Cove, Pembroke Dock, last month for an excellent day of dinghy racing.

The event brought the curtain down on a successful CYRC (Club Youth Race Circuit) series and was held in conjunction with the PPSA (Pembrokeshire Performance Sailing Academy) and RYA (Royal Yachting Association) Cymru, West Wales.

With lovely October sunshine and a light to medium easterly breeze, conditions on the day were perfect for dinghy sailing... and for keeping almost everyone dry!

Families and spectators also enjoyed watching the action on the water from the shoreside and waterside Cove balcony, where they were able to partake of breakfast, lunch and other welcome refresments throughout the day.

The prize-giving ceremony saw the Cove packed with families as the competitors received their awards for the day and the series overall.

All in all, it was a really enjoyable day for everyone and all looked forward to returning next year.

Finally, thanks go to sponsors, Port of Milford Haven and PPSA for their generous support.

FOOTNOTE: The West Regional Committee of RYA Cymru Wales is seeking support to fund the CYRC series (Club Youth Race Circuit). This is an annual programme managed and delivered by the clubs themselves. This year, the host clubs were Dale YC, Tenby SC, Pembrokeshire YC, Fishguard Bay YC and PPSA to end the series

The objective is to have five racing dates designed to build on the West Wales open winter training offered through clubs over the winter months.

Whilst quality racing is the intention of the series, courses may be adapted and training may be provided to suit the age and ability of competitors.

It is the ethos of the CYRC Series to welcome and help less experienced sailors. It is an ideal introduction to sail racing, led by an experienced coach and assisted by many able instructors and volunteers. It complements the existing training run within the clubs but brings the youth together whilst encouraging the clubs to work together with the common aim of promoting sailing within their community and encouraging a healthy lifestyle and a lifelong activity.