On 12-13 September at the AYC, young people from sailing clubs and organisations across West Sussex took part in a huge regatta composed of a mixed fleet of more than 90 single-handed and two-handed racing dinghies. Secretary Martin Tomlinson described it as the "biggest regatta in the 35-year history of the association", which is dedicated to providing opportunities for sailing to the young people of West Sussex.

Conditions were marginal on the Saturday, and although a race was attempted over a very short course, there were too many capsizes and too much confusion for the results to count. On Sunday, the wind moderated sufficiently for the event to proceed. The boats were divided into 3 fleets to accommodate the wide range of abilities and boats: fast boats, slower boats and a one-design fleet of the popular Topper dinghy. For many competitors this was their first experience of a big regatta, and racing was arranged over low water to ensure easy sailing out of the river Arun on the last of the ebb tide.

The racing took place around a large triangular course off the West Beach at Littlehampton, with many parents and supporters watching with binoculars from the beach and sand dunes. The wind was from the North and quite strong and gusty, but the sea was flat which meant that the large fleet of rescue boats did not have too many capsizes to worry about.

After the 2 races the fleet returned for a late lunch and prize giving. The much sought after team trophy, which is given to the club or organisation that has the best results overall, was won by Felpham Sailing Club. The Commodore of Arun Yacht Club, Nick Clare, awarded the prizes and applauded the current upsurge in interest in young people learning to sail at Arun and many other clubs, thanks in good part to the efforts of many club volunteer trainers, assistants and safety boat drivers. Next year the event will be held at a club in Chichester Harbour.

Prize winners: Team trophy: 1st, Felpham Sailing Club (FSC); 2nd, Pagham Yacht Club (PYC); 3rd, Crawley Mariners Yacht Club (CMYC). Fast handicap: 1st, Martin Lown and Oliver Legg (CMYC); 2nd, Jack Holden (Arun Yacht Club); 3rd, Eric Sherrad (PYC). Slow handicap: 1st, Ryan Breach (FSC); 2nd, Rosie Hickman (PYC); 3rd, Sam Tyler (Pagham Lagoon Sailing). Toppers: 1st, Toby Schofield (FSC); 2nd, James Mapley (FSC); 3rd, Martin Jones (FSC).