The United Kingdom Firefighters’ Sailing Challenge 2014 takes place 29 April to 1 May. In recent years, this fun but competitive regatta has attracted entries from all ‘blue light’ services, including firefighters, police, ambulance and mountain rescue crews. 2014 sees the 11th edition of the event.

Teams will gather in the Solent to pit their sailing skills against one another in identical Sunsail F40 sailing yachts over three days of intense racing. As well as attracting experienced racers, the event also welcomes those with little or no experience, enabling them to discover the thrills of racing ‘round the cans’ in a large regatta, using a handicap passage race to help level the odds.

The event raises significant money for supported charitable institutions. Over the last ten years in excess of £56,000 has been raised for various good causes. Last year saw donations going to The Firefighters Charity, The RNLI, Save The Children and Mission For Sam, all raised from competitors and event sponsors: www.ukfsc.org.uk

After five days of action packed racing at the 2014 RYA Youth National Championships, the RYA’s Selection Panel have announced the 12 sailors who will represent Great Britain at the ISAF Youth Sailing World Championships 2014. The names of the sailors who will travel to Tavira, Portugal from the 12-19 July 2014 to compete for the British Youth Sailing Team were revealed at the prize-giving of the RYA Youth National Championships at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy.

Leading the charge for British Team will be Olivier Greber and his new crew Jess Eales in the multi-hull catamaran class. Greber has a wealth of experience on his side, winning a bronze medal at last year’s event in Cyprus as well as a silver medal at the 2013 SL16 class World Championships with former sailing partner James Henson.

The Royal Western Yacht Club is pairing up with Gijon tourismo, Spain for a race from Plymouth to the northern Spanish resort.
Starting on 22 June, the event, which is for IRC rated yachts, is a fully crewed race across the Bay of Biscay finishing in the sunshine and hospitality of Gijon.

With entries limited to 25 boats and the high value £150 race fee, it’s imperative those wishing to take part express an early interest. The entry fee includes free berthing in Plymouth before the start and three days in the marina at Gijon. Added to which, during their stay in Gijon, entrants will be treated to tours and entertainment.

We are all familiar with the RNLI and the great work they do to safeguard our coast line; this year the life-saving charity are heading into fashion and recycling old life jackets into fashion accessories for men, including a tablet holder and wash bag. Each accessory is heartwarmingly unique, hand made with the maker’s name embossed on the swing tag, and has each had a taste of adventure around the British coast.

Price: £45 (Wash Bag); £40 (Mini Tablet Cover)
www.RNLIshop.org.uk