2012’s Roses sailing clash was a tight and tempestuous affair which eventually resulted in York coming home with the points, a marvelous achievement considering the disadvantage of racing away from home.
This year they will be hoping to replicate that success, and use the benefit of racing on home waters to their advantage. However, in 2011 York succumbed to defeat for the first time in a number of years, and again this year both outfits look strong, promising a fierce and memorable contest.
York’s form over the course of the season has been excellent, and Commodore Sam Edom told Vision: “This has to be one of the most successful seasons for the sailing club in its history, with the first team coming 4th at BUCS Northern Qualifiers in February, qualifying directly for BUCS Finals for the first time in 10 years. At those BUCS Finals, the team finished as 3rd Northern team in 17th place, an incredible rise in national rankings from their 53rd placing last year.”
Unsurprisingly confidence is high going into Roses after this year’s fabulous results. “With strong performances from both the first and second teams this year, confidence is flowing through the club for Roses 2013,” says Edom. “Having said that, the nature of university sailing means that anything can happen, so we’re not taking anything for granted!”
One of the shining lights in the society this year has been fresher Tasha de la Fuente, who has made a big impact at York and forced her way onto the 1st team. However arguably the most important member of the squad is race captain Matt Goacher, who has been a key component in the outfit’s success over the past twelve months.
“Matt has built up a fascinating rivalry with his Lancaster counterpart Sam Robinson,” added Edom. “Matt gained the edge with victory in last year’s Roses, but Sam got the better of him at a recent university event, making their impending battle on the start line all the more interesting.”
The battle between these two fine sailors is likely to be crucial in determining the fate of this year’s Roses contest, which will be held at the Beaver Sailing Club. Edom told Vision: “The event itself should be really good this year though, with a big spectator bus taking people down to our reservoir to watch the sailing. With a barbeque on the go and some beginners windsurfing as well, it should be great fun and an ideal chance for people to get involved who don’t normally get the chance!