BLACKWATER Sailing Club cadet Joey Taylor claimed victory at the National Eric Twiname Championships at Rutland Sailing Club.

Taylor was victorious in the Optimist class, which saw 76 sailors selected from Royal Yachting Association's regional zone squads across the country take part.

Also competing in the same event was Matilda Evans, who came 12th overall and picked up the second girl prize.

Blackwater SC was also represented in the Topper fleet by Aimee Taylor.

More than 90 cadets along with their parents took part in the last cadet training weekend before the annual Blackwater Cadet Week.

The youngsters enjoyed plenty of variation in the weather with extreme hail one moment and bright sunshine the next.

The wind changed over the weekend, from light drifting conditions to perfect medium sailing breeze.

For many cadets this was their first trip out on the River Blackwater, where they used the skills gained on the training lake along with the added complication of dealing with the tide and other river users.

Younger cadets continued building their sailing experience on and off the lake with tuition in small groups.

These training weekends keep the youngsters warmed up during the season, prior to the annual Cadet Week.

At Cadet Week, youngsters will be able to join in the racing on the river or sail training on the lake and all will take part in the fun and frolic activities off or in the water.

It is from these seeds sown that success such as that claimed in regional and national championships is reaped.

Meanwhile, Blackwater Sailing Club underwent its annual Royal Yachting Association assessment as a ‘Recognised Training Establishment’.

The club passed the assessment with flying colours, thanks to the enormous efforts of all the members who volunteer to help in these events.