WINNING FOR MIKEY AT THE SONATA NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

The Sonata National Championships was a tightly fought battle this year. 23 boats lined up at the start line on the Medway in bright sunshine and a good sea breeze. In the end the contest was between Sunderland boat White Magic and Presto from Poole. White Magic headed the leader board at the start of the week, but Presto was hot on their heels and by Thursday evening had a two point lead on David Matthews and his team.

Friday brought light winds and plenty of nerves as the AP came down and racing got underway. Having dominated the podium for the rest of the week, the title contenders found themselves fighting for third and fourth. Presto secured their third though ensuring the top spot. Poignantly Joe Cross and his team were crowned National Champions on the 18th birthday of their crew member Michael Walker who was due to be crewing the week when he was tragically knocked off his bike and killed in May. The front of Presto sported the text "Racing for Mikey", but "Winning for Mikey" is what they achieved.

Production Director Paul Botterill jumped ship from regular ride Musical Express to sail with Watersong, maybe that was not a good thing!

1^st Presto, Poole Yacht Club, Joe Cross
2^nd White Magic, Sunderland Yacht Club, David Matthews
^3rd Musical Express, Medway Yacht Club, Mike Harrison