Courses were set up on the sheltered side of the lake, and with a strong Safety Boat squad in support the children bravely took to the water. Soon the Safety Boats started picking up capsized boats, and many competitors sought shelter on the leeward shore. However, those managing to stay upright thoroughly enjoyed the competition and the extreme conditions. While the Optimists only managed the morning races, the Toppers did brave the elements again in the afternoon.

The young competitors declared that they were glad to have weathered the storm and their tough introduction to racing, despite many dunkings, bumps and bruises. Winners of the Optimist fleet were Ross Banham (1st) and Georgi Cage (2nd), both from Bewl Valley Sailing Club. Topper winners were Andrew Thompson (1st) from Crawley Mariners Sailing Club and Will Basing (2nd) from Bough Beech Sailing Club.