The sailing calendar, much like the wind, often throws us a curveball. But rarely do we see a regatta that manages to inaugurate a new year by concluding the previous one. Such was the curious case at Chew Valley Sailing Club, where the high-octane RS700 fleet gathered for their Inland Championships – an event officially slated as the 'last of 2025' but, in a delightful temporal twist, served as the opening salvo for the 2026 competitive season.

For those of us accustomed to the meticulous planning of America's Cup cycles or the multi-year campaigns of The Ocean Race, this calendrical quirk might raise an eyebrow. Yet, in the vibrant, grassroots world of single-handed dinghy racing, it's often a testament to the sheer enthusiasm and dedication of the sailors and event organizers. The RS700, a truly exhilarating platform, demands precision and athleticism, a miniature grand prix machine where every puff and shift can be exploited or squandered.

While the specific tactical plays and podium finishers of this rescheduled event are still emerging, the very fact of its occurrence, bridging two calendar years, speaks volumes. It underscores the enduring passion that fuels our sport, from the cutting-edge foil designs of Emirates Team New Zealand to the nimble, unyielding spirit of the RS700 sailor battling inland breezes. It’s a reminder that regardless of the budget – whether it's a $100M America's Cup campaign or a weekend warrior's dinghy – the heart of competitive sailing beats strong, even when the calendar gets a little mixed up.