Merlin Nationals 2017 at Pwllheli

Published 13:14 on 20 Aug 2017

Three club sailors had a fabulously full on sailing week at the Aspire sponsored Nationals at Pwllheli in North Wales.Megan Pascoe crewing for brother Sam Pascoe together with Phil and Ali Ashworth had a fun filled force five extravaganza with epic waves for some great downwind legs. As one competitor said ÄúYou canÄôt get fun like that sitting on the sofaÄù.38 boats made the start. Megan and Sam finished 5th overall with an impressive 3rd on ÄúWindy WednesdayÄù which saw only 22 finishers. Launching and coming back in that day was a task in itself with ear deafening sails flapping on the beach. A stiff helping of resolve was needed to jump on board for the ride.Phil and Ali made it through the week completing the full program of 9 races and finished 2nd in the Bronze fleet and 27th overall. What the scoresheet never tells you is the colour of the helms face gybing down a huge wave going full chat, and the grin when youÄôve pulled it off and gone past a boat on the way!Thanks to all club members who have supported us, motivated us and made the sofa a less interesting place!Phil Ashworth

Last updated 15:13 on 28 July 2025