Memories of Norfolk Punt Championship 2024
Welcome to some rambling thoughts about the Norfolk Punt Championship 2024 held on Barton Broad Norfolk on Saturday and Sunday 17th and 18th August.
You do remember what a Norfolk Punt looks like – not a flat bottomed effort with a geezer and a pole at the back. It’s one of these – a fast, sleek racing yacht, capable of frightening speed when the wind gets up. Not that a bit of wind bothers punt sailors. They simply cram on more canvas like this bright red spinnaker.
However this week’s blog isn’t going to be a lesson in technical terms associated with boats, merely a few collected thoughts about an enjoyable weekend of sailing. Although the sun was shining for much of the time the lack of wind and at best its unpredictable strength made the two days pleasant, but a bit unexciting. We spent time simply watching the boats go by and taking it easy.
Some competitors wished to make adjustments to the top of their masts and this may be the only way to do it.
As usual there was a bit of animated discussion about the course and how to get round it. Tactics need to be worked out with the crew.
And there were one or two eventful moments. Buoys should be rounded not towed away.
For those who have never seen or sailed in a Norfolk Punt it will come as no surprise to learn that good balance is an essential part of success.
One other essential is to consume plenty of food – especially yummy cakes.
Crew members must be heavy enough to balance the boat – or in some cases must have enough energy to get the boat upright after a capsize.
Were there winners? -of course. Here we see Simon and Rachel in action and subsequently receiving their cup as winners of the Punt Championship 2024.
I suspect I have a picture of two promising young men who one day will get the top prize
Edward and Alex. One does not need a crystal ball to work out that in competition terms they are going places.
For more of my photographs from this event click here for Saturday pictures.
For Sunday pictures click here