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Enter NOW for the Inlands. Please enter for the Inlands and Allen Brothers (5) at Hollingworth. There will be an evening meal, followed by prize draw. This should be booked in advance, either when you enter online, or email me numbers
Enter NOW
Posted 9: 05 AM Sunday, August 24, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Zone Squads. In addition to the Zone Championships entry ALL those applying for places in the Zone Squads MUST enter for their relevant zone qualifiers which are taking place as follows:
SOUTH ZONE - 6 & 7 September - Itchenor SC
NORTH & WEST ZONES - 20 & 21 September - Beaver SC
EAST & S.EAST ZONES - 20 & 21 September Marconi SC
SOUTH WEST ZONE - 11 & 12 October - Sutton Bingham SC
Entry to these events is FREE but you MUST submit an entry form online to me by post to arrive not less than 14 days beforehand. The entry form and medical consent form can be downloaded from the links You should contact your Zone High Performance Manager to advise him of your entry to to these events. These events are open so any sailors NOT applying for zone squad places can attend but forms are still required.
Apply for Squad and Enter Zone Championships Here
Posted 12: 33 PM Wednesday, August 13, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Chris Rust and Ollie Newman win the Euros. The European Championships went right down to the wire, with the Brightlingsea lads taking the title on the last lap, after the Greys who had led all week fell in and dropping to third overall. The Barry sisters giving a one two to Brightlingsea
Click Here
Posted 11: 09 AM Thursday, August 7, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Greys win the Swedish Nationals. After a close last two races, Ed and Beth kept their cool to win the Swedish Nationals, from Ross and Katy, with juniors Hugo and Aiden in third. There is now a lay day before the Europeans start on Tuesday
Click Here
Posted 3: 56 PM Sunday, August 3, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Greys lead the Swedish Nationals. After four races, sailed in a light winds that were very shifty, Ed and Beth Grey lead, taking three wins. Ross Kearney and Katy second from juniors Hugo Sloper and Aidan McCarthy
Click Here
Posted 6: 59 PM Saturday, August 2, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Team GBR on the way to Sweden.  The advance party are just loading three ribs, three mirrors and three vans onto the ferry at Harwich for the 19 hour crossing to Esbjerg.
Posted 4: 50 PM Monday, July 28, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Enter now for RYA Zone Championships. For the juniors, the RYA Zone Championships are one of the key events of the season, particularly those looking to apply for a squad. For those in Wales, there is a chance to get some race practice at Pwhelli
Click Here
Posted 4: 42 PM Thursday, July 24, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
David Conlon and Mitchell Bond lead the class rankings. After four rounds, David and Mitchell hang on to their position at the top of the Allen Brothers Championship Series, being ranked No 1 all year. But things are getting very close going into the last two Championships. After the Inlands at Hollingworth there will be a discard, which is likely to shake things up going into the final round at Shustoke in October
Click Here
Posted 2: 25 PM Sunday, July 20, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Ed Fitz wins ISAF Worlds. The former National Squad member has just won the 29er ISAF Youth Worlds title with a day to spare, well done Ed. Other Mirror sailor James Ellis is in third going into the last day.
Click Here
Posted 9: 23 AM Monday, July 14, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Greys win the Westerns. After taking the Scottish Championships, Ed and Beth make it two in a row by winning the Allen Brothers Nationwide 4 at Restronguet
Click Here
Posted 7: 25 PM Sunday, July 13, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Arrival and other events for Restronguet. Please see the event website. There will be an early evening meal after Saturday racing and before the Allen Brothers prize draw, please can you email me to reserve in advance and pay at registration (@ £6)
Click Here
Posted 9: 27 AM Thursday, July 10, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Mirror Scottish Championships. Date 5th and 6th July at Annandale Sailing Club
Report by Paul Hansen
Saturday started with a nice breeze only for the rain to kill the wind by the time the first beat had been completed, racing in the very light and shifty wind proved tricky however Ed and Beth Grey from Windemere made the most of the conditions taking the first race. The conditions did not alter for the rest of the afternoon, and neither did Ed and Beth’s winning ways, although there was close racing for the remaining places and in the third race local boat J Hugo and E Murgatroyed took a well deserved second place.
The rain finally stopped in time for the BBQ on Saturday night which was enjoyed by all.
Sunday was a different day with sunshine and a nice force 3 wind, again Ed and Beth were out in front always finding the lifts, and after the first two races when an excellent lunch was served they had sewn up the championship. At this point John and Clare Peterson (Whitstable) were 2nd on 11 points, with Nicky Haigh and Will Nickson (Windemere) 3rd and Inge-lisa Hansen and Oliver Townsend (N Lincs and Ripon) 4th both tied on 12 points, the last race was crucial to these boats. Again Ed was unstoppable; the other boats changed positions with each beat as the shifts caught them out, eventually Inge-lisa pulled through to second with Nicky third.
These positions were also the final championship positions with the Petersons who had sailed well all weekend losing out at the final hurdle and coming fourth.
J Hugo won the Masters prize.
Bob Towler (Beaver) won the single handed prize.
The catering and hospitality shown by the host club was fantastic and thoroughly enjoyed by all competitors and their families.
Results
Posted 9: 39 AM Wednesday, July 9, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Welcome brochure for 2008 Euros. The Swedish hosts have produced a fantastic welcome brochure, detailing the event, venue and surrounding countryside. Still time to enter for anyone else inspired to join us in Sweden
Click Here
Posted 9: 10 AM Sunday, July 6, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Enter NOW for Allan Brothers Nationwide Championships 4. The Westerns are fast approaching, please enter now. This event also includes the Youth and Juniors, to find best non-adult sailors. There will be an evening meal and prize draw after Saturday's racing, this needs to be booked in advance.
Click Here
Posted 8: 35 AM Saturday, July 5, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Southern Traveller Results. With two more events to go so plenty of scope for some changes in the rankings. Next event Christchurch this weekend
Click Here
Posted 5: 03 PM Tuesday, July 1, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
David Conlon and Mitchell Bond still lead the class rankings. At the half way stage of the Allen Brothers Natiownide Championship Series, the Brightlingsea Boys still top the leaderboard, Chris Rust and Oliver Newman jumping up to second place. Rankings are very tight, with a mere five points seperating 2nd to 9th places. The next round is Restronguet, which also includes the Youth and Junior Championships.
Click Here
Posted 5: 54 PM Thursday, June 26, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Beth White to make sea crossing in a Mirror. The end of July will see the former squad sailor make the crossing in "Auk" Mirror dinghy sail number 68302 from St Mary's on the Scillies to Mount's Bay Sailing Club, Marazion, Cornwall. The helm will be Tony Clee. Tony is 82 and has recently recovered from throat cancer. He continues to race regularly at club level and on his day is still capable of winning within a fleet which includes National Squad and Zone Squad sailors. This is a crossing of some 40 miles with some of the most demanding tidal and sea conditions to be found around our coastline. An added hazard is that it is also one of the UK's busiest shipping areas.
Tony conceived this challenge to raise money for Cancer Research in order to "give something back" and to show his gratitude for the care, attention and expertise he received in helping him to combat cancer. His challenge is already receiving considerable media interest and it is being presented as the oldest and youngest crew in the smallest sailing dinghy ever to attempt this crossing.
Click Here
Posted 12: 38 PM Tuesday, June 24, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Barrys win Nationals. The weather again threatened the second part of the Nationals, with winds gusting 30 knots + on the Sunday at Poole, but with four races over a variety of conditions and two venues we now have worthy champions in the Barry sisters from Brightlingsea SC. Again 2005 World Champion Ross Kearney and Katy Jones finished second, with Natalie and Grace Roach completing the podium
Click Here
Posted 6: 53 PM Sunday, June 22, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Euros - payment due for trailers and entry fees. We need to pay the balance for the cost of transportation to Sweden, please pay online or send me a cheque. There is also the opportunity to pay for your entry online, saving some of the cost and hassle of arranging your own international bank transfer. Deadline 23rd June
Click Here
Posted 4: 09 PM Saturday, June 14, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Mirrors at Beaver. Matt Grayson writes;
On Saturday we saw the Mirror/Topper open turn out 15 (yes fifteen) Mirrors.
Seven of the Mirrors were from the Beaver Sailing Club, so well done and thank you all for supporting my efforts.
The conditions were testing (light winds) but the competition was keen. Two of the boats had come all the way from Bassenthwaite SC and produced the eventual winner.
This years event was somewhat unusual in that it was a combined Armada/Open where race instructions had been changed to allow on the water coaching during the racing. Coaching was provided by Lilly and Becky from a dory in race one and who split up to help sailors in race two. In race three they climbed into their own boat to show that they could still perform – but as they had not entered the event their result did not count!
Having now completed four of this years six Mirror Armada sessions at Beaver we can see the benefits of understanding the boat and the wind. Certainly all the tweaking of boat settings is now starting to pay off.
The Beaver placings are as follows:-
Mik Chappell 2,1,3. 1st Bassenthwaite
Matt Grayson 4,7,1. 2nd Beaver
Inge-Lisa Hansen/Oliver townsend 1,4,4. 3rd North Lics
Matthew and Benjamin Lulham-Robinson 3,2,15 4th Yeadon/Otley
Peter Sedgewood/ Ewan Byers 14,8,2 5th Ripon
Bob Towler 8,3,7. 6th Beaver
Ed and Reg Grayson 6,11,5. 7th Beaver
Malcolm Elwood 10, 5, 6. 8th Beaver
Paul Julings 5,6,15 9th Beaver
Catherine and William Hide 11,9,8 10th Ripon
Oliver White and Eleanor Hide 9,13,9. 11th Ripon
D. Todhunter 7,15,15 12th Bassenthwaite
Martin Rumsby 13,10,15 13th Beaver
Paul Lundy 12,12, 15. 14th Beaver
So well done everyone who took part, especially Paul Lundy as it was his first competitive race.. Also Ed and Reg who struggled with concentration at times but beat Zone Squad members during the course of the day.
All in all it was a very successful day, with Lilly and Becky giving some informative between race feedback and on water instruction to Armada attendees.
Next Mirror Armada event at Beaver is on 29th June 2008 where the coaches will be looking a the application of racing rules and thinking ahead to avoid getting caught out on the race track.
Posted 12: 45 PM Wednesday, June 11, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Open entry for 2009 World Championships. The UK MCA proposal to the International Class to allow open entry to 2009 World Championships has been approved, this means anyone can compete. Nevertheless there will still be qualifiers to things like grants and coach support etc, details to follow
Posted 8: 28 AM Monday, June 9, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
2008 AGM Minutes. Many thanks to Angus for a quick turnaround in the minutes, these are now available in the MCA Members' Area
Click Here
Posted 4: 53 PM Sunday, June 1, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
David Conlon and Mitchell Bond lead the class rankings. After two rounds of the Allen Brothers Nationwide Series, the Brightlingsea Boys head the table, with Charlotte Fitz and Annie Sipthorp in second, Brendan Sweeney and Max Ligema third. Things are very close throughout the table, Round 3 at Poole is shaping up to be a masive event
Click Here
Posted 11: 50 AM Saturday, May 31, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Nationals continues at PYC . With the weather gods failing to play ball over the bank holiday weekend and only one race completed, we have some unfinished business. So the postponement flag is flying, with the plan that Race 2 will now be on 21st June at Poole YC as part of the already scheduled Mirror Nationwide Championship 3 event. The aim being to complete a seven race series, including Race 1 (already completed). We are revising the NOR which will be issued shortly, in the meantime if you have not already entered for Poole please can you do so ASAP to allow us to finalise planning for what will be a larger fleet.
Click Here
Posted 12: 07 AM Wednesday, May 28, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Racing on English Braids Day 2 cancelled. Click Here
Posted 7: 16 AM Monday, May 26, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Emma and Martina Barry Win Race 1. After a shift in wind conditions Day 1 turned into a demolition Derby with big seas to catch much of the fleet out. In the end only half the fleet finished, enjoying some great surfing and sunshine. After leading for much of the first lap Tom and James Lovesey decided to sail twice the distance to the penultimate mark letting most of the fleet through. In the end the Barry sisters made the most of the conditions to win from the Spreckley twins, with the Roach sisters third.
Click Here
Posted 7: 18 PM Saturday, May 24, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Updates from the Nationals. We hope to have regular news and results from the 2008 English Braids Nationals posted on the event website
Click Here
Posted 7: 33 AM Saturday, May 24, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Mirror Book available at the Nationals.  For those going to the Nationals there will be the chance to purchase the new Mirror Bible, and its author Peter Aitken will be on hand to sign copies and offer tips. This fully illustrated book covers everything you need to know including rigging, sailing theory and practice, reefing, launching and landing, capsizing, racing and transportation. It also includes four master classes which aim to get the reader to advanced racing standard.
* This is the only book you'll ever need to sail your Mirror.
*Fully illustrated with step-by-step photography.
*It teaches everything from the essentials of sailing theory and rigging, through faster upwind and downwind sailing, to racing tactics and how to outsmart the opposition.
Covers both gaff rigged and new Bermuda rigged boats
Posted 10: 13 AM Thursday, May 22, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
AGM Agenda. The AGM is this Sunday, this is your chance to have your say and input in running the class, important all owners are there
Click Here
Posted 2: 08 PM Tuesday, May 20, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Natalie and Grace Roach win Looe with a Clean Sweep.. An excellent turnout of 11 Mirrors were on the water for an excellent, but demanding, days sailing in the Cornish sunshine. The fleet was dominated by the highly enthusiastic Mirror Fleet at Looe SC which has the potential to be the new hotbed of Mirror sailing in the southwest. Their new Armada Fleet status is paying off with some excellent training supported by the Mirror Class Association. Big seas dominated the morning race while the afternoon became tricky with lighter winds but still with a residual swell. Natalie Roach managed to take time off from her new career in the Royal Navy to lead the ‘Fleet’ around the course with 3 wins and looks to pick up where she left off last year as the top SW Mirror. Jeremy Stevens and his daughter Rebecca from Penzance, once they had dealt with rudder problems when launching in the heavy surf, demonstrated a potential that could bear fruit at next week’s nationals with two seconds, while Rob and Imogen Bellfield were third overall. The stars from Looe were Matt and Daisy Jaycock who showed good speed in the lighter winds in their beautifully refurbished boat to come fourth, closely followed by Tom Richardson and Billy Palfrey in one of the new Lottery-funded club boats. The Mirrors at Looe are a benchmark for other clubs; it is great to see such a strong class spirit within a really friendly club.
Posted 11: 31 PM Sunday, May 18, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Mirror sailors excel in 420s. Former Mirror sailors have been achieving great things in 420s, and putting their junior training into good practise. Selected to represent the 420's at the worlds in Athens, and the Europeans in Zadar Croatia. Piers Strong( With an excellent 3rd overall) , Kate McGreggor, Rosie Sibthorp, Becky Kaldon. This was following the selector series where upon the top 7 boy boats and the top 7 girl boats are selected.
Click Here
Posted 3: 04 PM Sunday, May 18, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
English Braids Rope Workshop at the Nationals. English Braids will be running a rope workshop on the Saturday of the Nationals, chance to find out all about the different types of rope and where to use each. Also spliicng and how to make tapered sheets
If you have any questions, would be useful to have these in advance, please post here.
CLICK HERE
Posted 8: 01 PM Thursday, May 15, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Harry Yeoward and Nick Elsdon win ET.. In what were frustrating conditions with little wind and no sailing on Day 1, the West Zone pair took three bullets to win from fellow West Zone members Nicky HAIGH and Will Nickson, with East Zone sailors, John and Clare Peterson in third. We look forward to seeing all the Zone Squad sailors at the Nationals in two weeks time
Posted 6: 37 PM Sunday, May 11, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Enter now for English Braids Nationals and recieve a FREE new main halyard. All those who have entered and paid before this Saturday (10th May) will receive a FREE English Braids Dynema main halyard. Remember that LATE ENTRY FEES (£25 surcharge) apply after this date, so excuse to enter in advance
Posted 11: 30 AM Monday, May 5, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Emma and Martina Barry Win the Southerns. Click Here
Posted 4: 47 PM Saturday, May 3, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Andy Smith wins at Itchenor. Former Fireball World Champion launched his new Winder MK3 in style by sweeping the board at the Itchenor Southern Traveller. Sailing with son Tom, they took all five races. Held at Itchenor on Sunday 27th April in hugely variable conditions with the wind swinging from North east through the compass until settling on SW for the final race of 5. Wind strength moved from calm to force 3 through the day with the odd thunder storm thrown in.
Behind Andrew racing was very tight and second could have been taken by the next four. Alice Courage and Lily Lawton from Poole proved to be most consistent taking second, with Emma Gough (crew) and David (Dad and Helm) third and Evie Clemence and Milly Pugh just one point behind in fourth.
Click Here
Posted 7: 22 PM Monday, April 28, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
2008 AGM. This will be held on the Sunday (25th May) of the Nationals at Llandudno SC. Any submissions with proposers and seconders need to be with me within 21 days of the AGM
Posted 3: 43 PM Saturday, April 26, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Open Training and Open Meeting This Weekend at Itchenor. The Southern Traveller Open Meeting Series kicks off this Sunday at Itchenor, with a 11.00 am start and planned five races back to back races. On the Saturday there will be open training, great opportunity for those who have yet to start their season to get back up to racing speed
Click Here
Posted 12: 07 PM Wednesday, April 23, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
More boats for Sweden. Following various discussions at the weekend, there are a few more Mirrors and ribs interested in attending the Euros this summer. At the moment the transport arrangements we committed to last year are full with those who paid a deposit, BUT we do have the opportunity to book another trailer but need a few more Mirrors and/or ribs to make it worthwhile. If you are interested please can you confirm by the end of the month.
Posted 12: 36 PM Tuesday, April 22, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Enter NOW for Allan Brothers Nationwide Championships II. With a great start to the season and some very close race throughout the fleet, the Championship series moves to Whitstable for round 2 over the May Bank Holiday. With generous support from series sponsors Allan Brothers, there will be plenty of goodies to win at the Saturday evening prize draw. This will follow the early evening meal, this needs to be booked by this Saturday (26th April). The Championship is also the second selector for Euros grants, so National Squad Coach will be out talent spotting and will also run a video debrief after the racing which will be of benefit to all sailors. For newcommers, there will also be a special training session to help you get upto speed for racing
CLICK HERE
Posted 9: 15 PM Monday, April 21, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
David Conlon and Mitchell Bond win the Easterns. In their first event in a Mirror for some time, David and Mitch won the first Allen Brothers Nationwide Championships of 2008 in what was a very competitive fleet. Of the five races sailed in testing conditions, there five different race winners. Ross Kearney and Katy Jones were second, with Youth Squad members Brendan Sweeney and Max Ligema third.
Click Here
Posted 9: 53 PM Sunday, April 20, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Evening Meal and Prize Draw On Saturday. We are pleased to announce that Allen Brothers will be sponsors of the Easterns and Nationwide Championship Series. On Saturday there will be an early evening meal, followed by prize draw where all competitors have a chance of winning, BUT remember you need to be there to win. The two course evening meal is £8 per head, this can be booked when you enter, or email me numbers to reserve you place.
Click Here
Posted 12: 11 PM Wednesday, April 16, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Ed Fitz selected for ISAF Youth Worlds. The former National Squad sailor follows in the footsteps of several Mirror sailors who have represented Team GBR at the ISAF Youth Worlds, a fantastic achievement considering only one boat per class is selected like the Olympics. The Mirror sailors who have attended the ISAF Worlds have all done very well, most coming home with a medal, no pressure Ed !!
Click Here
Posted 7: 35 PM Friday, April 4, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Mirror Sailors Enjoy Tremendous Success at RYA Youth Nationals. There were several former and current Mirror sailors competing in North Wales and showing the class we can produce some top class sailors with some stunning performances. With Ed Fitz winning the closely fought 29er class and James Ellis second in the SL16. There were also several top ten places for other Mirror sailors, with Lilly and Becky in 8th in the 29er and third girls, fantastic progress in this challenging class. In the 420s Kate McGregor was first girl and 5th overall, Piers Strong 8th and Hannah Mitchell crewing in the 2nd all girl team.
Click Here
Posted 6: 04 PM Friday, April 4, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Enter the Easterns Now. The first Championship of the season returns to the home of the first ever Mirror Nationals. There will be a training day on the Friday and this is a RYA qualifier for Euro grants for the juniors
Click Here
Posted 7: 24 PM Wednesday, April 2, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Euros 2008 website. For those looking for accomadation the hosts have updated with more options. If anyone who has not booked on the trailers for their Mirror, there may still be scope to take an extra one or two boats, but we need to confirm by mid Apr
Click Here
Posted 4: 23 PM Monday, March 17, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Euros 2008, team Clothing - PLEASE ORDER NOW. Emma Spruce needs your orders NOW, order form and details can be downloaded below.
Click Here
Posted 6: 36 PM Sunday, March 16, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Register NOW for the season's events and save a third. This year we have changed the MCA events process and are able to offer significant savings for those who register and pay for all UK MCA Championships in advance. Even if you are unsure you can make all events you should still save money, for family members subsequent boats on the same registration will save even more. Don't worry if you don't have crew details, these are added nearer the date for each event. Rememember you need to register and pay by 30th March 2008.
ENTER NOW
Posted 11: 10 AM Saturday, March 8, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Join and Renew Online. The membership renewals are out with the Royal Mail and should be with you shortly, thanks to new membership Secretary Anna Lloyd. You can now renew and join online, and pay by credit card. The renewal letter contains a unique login and password to give you access to your membership details, during March we will be launching a new website with special areas just for current members. Renewing members will also receive a copy of our new 40 page, A4 and full colour, magazine, Mirror Images.
Click Here
Posted 8: 25 PM Sunday, February 10, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Holly Scott on BBC TV. For those in the Midlands, you may have seen our World Champion Crew on BBC TV, Holly was one of the finalists for the Raymarine Young Salor of the year (Helm Anna being too old by a matter of days !!) and the clip featured her nomination
Click here
Posted 2: 29 PM Tuesday, February 5, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Ed Fitzgerald 7th at 29er Worlds. Congratulations to the former Mirror National Squad member who has just returned from Australia, finishing 7th in the competitive fleet, crewing for James Peters. The young pair led the qualifying rounds for much of the time.
Click Here
Posted 6: 41 PM Saturday, January 12, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Grants for 2008 Euros. The RYA will be providing coach support at the Europeans and travel grants for 14 junior boats. There will also be pre-event training both in the UK and Sweden. Please register your interest now and start planning your campaign
Click Here
Posted 9: 18 AM Monday, January 7, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
Mirror Meet this Sunday at Wembley. For anyone close to NW London, there will be a gathering of Mirrors for some informal training and racing. Great chance to brush off the Christmas cobwebs
Click Here
Posted 1: 24 PM Friday, January 4, 2008 by Simon Lovesey
2008 Europeans. Looks like there will be around 20 GBR boats travelling to Sweden next summer for the Europeans, the event website is now online.
Click Here
Posted 10: 46 AM Tuesday, December 18, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Calendars have arrived.  The calendars have arrived and look fantastic, these will be going out over the weekend. Still time to order one in time for ChristmasClick Here
Posted 9: 13 PM Thursday, December 13, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Youth Squad keep warm at Draycote.  A brisk run round the lake (5 miles) followed by some energetic sailing exercises, ensured the ten boat MCA Youth Squad kept warm in the freezing conditions experienced over the weekend. The second Youth Squad weekend was led by P+B's Mirror Guru and 2005 World Champion, Ross Kearney, who kept the fleet on their toes and learning a few new trick. It was very impressive to see how close the racing was. The next session will be at Hayling in December, combined with the RYA National Junior Squad, so will be interesting to see who are the front runners are at this stage in winter training. The weekend also saw the champagne launch of Ed and Beth Grey's new MK3 Winder Mirror. This boat drew many admiring looks , particularly its multi colour scheme and many new ideas, some which can be seen in the photos.
Click for more photos
Posted 10: 26 AM Monday, November 26, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Accommodation for Nationals. We have been advised that it is worth while booking accommodation for the 2008 Nationals NOW, North Wales will be busy over Whitsun. For those looking for hotels and/or B&Bs we have created a nifty application to list those close to the club, with mapping and online booking.
Click Here
Posted 2: 26 PM Friday, November 9, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
2008 Nationals NOW over the Whitsun Bank Holiday Weekend. Following popular demand we have managed to bring the 2008 National Championships at Llandudno forward a few days to the actual Bank Holiday weekend. Llandudno is a superb championship venue, several Mirror Nationals have been held there in the past. The club advise booking accommodation NOW as this is a popular period in North Wales
Click Here
Posted 12: 28 PM Wednesday, October 31, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Roy Partridge. 
It is with great sadness to report that Roy Partridge passed away during the week. Although you may not have known Roy personally, you will almost certainly know his name. Roy has probably won more Mirror championships than any other sailor, including the Worlds, Europeans and Nationals. Roy also wrote the book "Sailing the Mirror", which for many years was considered the class bible and helped many thousands enjoy their Mirror sailing to the fullest. Roy was very active in the formative stages of the MCA, and it was his enthusiasm for racing and extracting the full performance out of the Mirror that helped Mirrors become the competitive racing class we are today. Our thoughts are with Roys family at this sad time.
Click here for memories
Posted 8: 32 AM Saturday, October 20, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
MIRROR CONDITIONS AT SUTTON BINGHAM. 
Natalie and Grace Roach dominated the ‘glass-like’ conditions at Sutton Bingham to win all three races and complete a successful SW Travellers Series to win the series trophy. The resurgence of the Mirror Fleet at Sutton Bingham saw 4 visitors and 5 local boats compete for the RYA Zone Squad selection trials in testing conditions. The coaching from Rosie Chapman the day before paid off for many of the less experienced sailors, with starting skills and boat speed improving dramatically over the weekend – hopefully starting many of them on the path to success, with Joe Palfray / Alex Richardson from Looe and Fred Cleary / Ben Clarke from Sutton Bingham, showing talent that bodes well for the future. Many of the more established SW travellers were regularly at the front of the Fleet with James Brant / Danial Peek and Will Searle /James Wilkinson challenging Natalie, along with Robert Bellfield (in his 38 yr old wooden mast Mirror) competing at the front in the light conditions with a 3rd overall. It was an excellent weekend that will hopefully stimulate the Sutton Bingham mirror fleet and encourage more visitors next year.
Results:
1st 71039 Natalie Roach / Grace Roach Devon Schools Sailing Association
2nd 70176 James Brant / Daniel Peak Penzance SC
3rd 20489 Robert Bellfield / Imogen Bellfield Sutton Bingham SC
4th 70209 Will Searle / James Wilkinson Penzance SC
5th 67993 Joe Palfrey / Alex Richardson Loose SC
6th 52303 Fred Cleary / Ben Clarke Sutton Bingham SC
Posted 9: 02 PM Monday, October 15, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Greys win NW Traveller Series. NW Traveller series sailed at Gresford, Shustoke, Royal Windermere, Hollingworth Lake and Budworth.
1. David Grey and Bethany/Emily Grey RWYC
2. Brendan Sweeney and Max Ligema RWYC
3. Rory Nichol and Lily Charlesworth RWYC
4. Nicky Haig and Molley Gore RWYC
Posted 7: 57 PM Monday, October 15, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Escritts win at Budworth. After picking up their new Winder Mirror the day before, Ian and Callum win the NW Traveller, 3 races sailed in very light and shifty conditions:-
1. Ian Escritt and Callum Escritt 70503 Yorkshire Dales SC
2. Brendan Sweeney and Max Ligema 70477 RWYC
3. David Grey and Emily Grey 70450 RWYC
4. Rory Nichol and Lily Charlesworth 39970 RWYC
5. David Moore and Jack Moore 70252 Blithfield
6. Katie Greenwood and Imogen Richards 70436 Budworth
7. Alex Joesbury and Martin Joesbury 53395 Budworth
8. Izzi Bristow and Graeme Bristow 56815 Budworth
9. Steve Arkle and Ben Arkle 60963 Budworth
10. Emily Whelan and Nick Whelan Budworth
11. Charles Whitaker and Jane Whitaker 69731 Budworth
12. Rebecca Morgan and Maddy Loftus 55795 Budworth
Posted 7: 55 PM Monday, October 15, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Deadline for booking transport to Sweden. As discussed at the Euros meeting we need to book the trailers this week, so the deadline for reserving your space and paying deposit is midnight this Wednesday.
Click Here
Posted 7: 14 PM Monday, October 8, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Chris Rust and Oliver Newman win the Inlands. 
The youngsters were popular winners at Blithfield in what truned out to be challenging conditions, with winds barely having sufficient strength to even move the flags. Race Officer Jon Moore managed to fit in three races to make a championships. David and Beth Grey were second, with Emma and Martina Barry third.
Click Here
Posted 6: 13 PM Sunday, October 7, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Commit now for 2008 Euros. We need NOW to book the transport for Sweden, we nearly have sufficient boats for one trailer, this will be booked next week. Others will be booked when there is sufficient boats, so if you want to go on one of the trailers please sign up now as we run the risk that other trailers may not be available the longer we leave things. Phil Rust has been actively investigating accommodation options, and has found some self catering locally. There are 12 family rooms available for 5 people, with kitchen and bathroom, we have reserved these with the aim that most of the team are together. Again people need to commit now to guarantee. There will be a short Euros meeting after Supper at the Inlands this Saturday to finalise some of these details.
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Posted 5: 17 PM Wednesday, October 3, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Please book Inlands supper in advance. Blithfield have organised a great early evening meal after Saturday's racing. They will need to know numbers in advance, so if you have not booked meals on your entry, please can you confirm numbers eating by Wednesday. The meal will be followed by the final Selden draw and chance to win a new rig.
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Posted 11: 17 AM Tuesday, October 2, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Prizes galore to be won at this weekend's Inlands. 
The final round of the 2007 Selden Nationwide Series and prize giving will be at this weekend's Inlands, with a treasure trove of prizes to be won. For the overall prize of the Mirror, six boats could scoop the top prize. In total we have 24 prizes for the series, with rankings also very close for the category awards, including Youth, Juniors, Ladies, Single Handers and Endeavour prizes. The final Selden draw for the new rig will take place after supper on Saturday, with one ticket for each event entered, remember you need to attend to win. Finally, after the Nationals, the Inlands is the MCA's most important domestic event, with eleven perpetual trophies to be won. ENTER NOW
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Posted 3: 38 PM Monday, October 1, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
South Zone Sailors mix it with Olympic Medalists. 
For the Mirror sailors competing at Weymouth for the RYA South Zone Championships it was the chance to rub shoulders with some of GBRs Gold Medal winners, including Ben Ainslie, Ian Percy and Sarah Ayton who presented the prizes. The Mirrors enjoyed some great conditions with light winds on the first day and a good 15+ knots breeze on day two. Competition was very close throughout the fleet and to high standard, in the end the National Squad slugged it out at the front, with Hugo Sloper and Aiden McGarthy, winning from Emma Spruce and Lucy Ford, with Tom Lovesey and Ben Cisneros in third. All three boats winning at least one race.
Posted 9: 01 AM Monday, October 1, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Enter NOW for the INLANDS. With just over a week to go, now is the time to get your entry in. This is the last Championship of the year, so great chance for all the squad sailors to get some last minute valuable top racing experience before winter training starts. The Inlands is also the last of 2007 Selden Nationwide Series, with plenty of prizes to be won. The Mirror Dinghy for the overall winner could be won by any one of six different boats. There are also prizes for juniors, youths, ladies, single handers and best improvers. These are all wide open.
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Posted 10: 04 PM Tuesday, September 25, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Brendan Sweeney and Max Ligema win at Hollingworth. Windermere members dominated the NW traveller at Hollingworth in a competitive fleet of 16 boats
Results:
1st. 70477 Brendan Sweeney/Max Ligema (RWYC)
2nd 70015 Edward Grey/Katie Greenwood (RWYC)
3rd 70100 Nicky Haigh/Molly Gore (RWYC)
4th 39970 Rory Nicholl/Lily Charlesworth (RWYC)
5th 70463 Adam and Samuel Whitehead (RWYC)
Posted 9: 29 PM Monday, September 24, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
RYA Junior National Squad 07/08, announced. After much deliberation, the RYA Junior National Squad has been selected. Congratulations to those who have been selected. This year the selectors were faced with many talented sailors, what was particularly impressive was the high standard emerging from the Zone Squads. These youngsters not making the squad this year are almost certainly likely to make an impact next year. We look forward to seeing all the National Squad out competing at the forthcoming Inlands in two weeks time at Blithfield.
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Posted 1: 41 PM Saturday, September 22, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Tight at the top of the Class Rankings. After the penultimate round of the Selden Nationwide Championship series things are very close throughout, there are six boats at the top who could all win the Mirror Dinghy with a top result at the Inlands. There are also prizes for Youths, Juniors, Lady Helms, Single Handers and best improvers, for these special category prizes things are also very tight, with all to be played for at the Inlands. The Inlands will also see the final Selden prize draw, with a complete rig up for grabs.
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Posted 1: 27 PM Monday, September 17, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Ross Kearney and Katy Jones win Selden Nationwide Championship 5. The 2005 World Champion cemented his lead at the top of the Nationwide Series by a strong win at the penultimate round at Sidmouth. After a drift and only one race on the Saturday, the fleet enjoyed moderate winds and some good waves on the Sunday. David and Beth Grey were second, closely followed by Simon Lovesey sailing the new Winder MK3 Mirror. Roseanna and Harry Yeoward were fourth and top Junior sailors.
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Posted 9: 10 PM Sunday, September 16, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
See the NEW MK3 Mirror at the Southampton Boat Show. The Southampton Boatshow which starts today (14th), will see the first full public airing of the new Winder MK3 Mirror, on the P&B stand.
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Posted 8: 45 AM Friday, September 14, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Lilly and Becky win at Grimwith NE Traveller. Close racing in winds of 25 + knots saw local heroins Lilly Carlisle & Becky Walbank win the event, beating Alex & Trevor Lloyd with the double handers of David Moore and Philip Benn in 3rd place followed by Angus Carlisle and Jack Moore in 4th.
Posted 8: 52 AM Wednesday, September 12, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Bernard Clark wins at Ripon. New teaming of Alex Lloyd and Jack Moore take the 1st double handed prize behind the single hander of local man Bernard Clark followed in 3rd place by single hander Philip Benn in difficult gusty conditions with winds gusting from 10 to 25Knots plus with an impressive turnout of 16 boats.
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Posted 8: 51 AM Wednesday, September 12, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Greys dominate at Windermere. It was a one two for the Grey family at the NW Traveller at RWYC. David and Beth Grey winning from younger brother Ed, with Brendan Sweeney and Max Ligema third.
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Posted 7: 07 PM Monday, September 10, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Tight finish at SE/E Zone Qualifiers. An impressive 15 boats competed at Whitsable as part of the Zone Qualifiers, with an amazing four boat tying on points, three of these having identical results. After count back, Alex Benfield and Ceilidth Higgs in a role reversal won from new Zone partnership Alex Lloyd and Sadie Samuel, with John and Clare Peterson third.
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Posted 5: 40 PM Sunday, September 9, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Enter NOW for RYA Zone Championships. For all Mirror sailors under 17 at 31/12/07, you need to enter the Zone Champs by the 19th. These are great events and the chance to race without the oldies getting in the way. For those applying for the Zone Squads, these championships form part of the qualifiers.
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Posted 3: 05 PM Friday, September 7, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Mk3 Photos.  Thanks to www.fotoboat.com we now have some great interior shots of the new MK3 Mirror. Everyone who has seen her in the flesh has commented on how modern the new Mirror looks without loosing some of the hallmark features, the fit and finish is superb. The dished decks give an impression of a roomier interior whilst sailing.
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Posted 5: 10 PM Wednesday, September 5, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Enter now for Sidmouth. The penultimate round of the Selden Nationwide Championship is next weekend, please enter now. This is also the last qualifier for the National Squad, important all applicants compete.
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Posted 6: 55 PM Monday, September 3, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Inge-Lisa Hansen and Oliver Townsend win NE Traveller Series. North East Travellers series, Inge-Lisa Hansen and Oliver Townsend came 1st, receiving a very nice trophy, and Angus Carlisle, who was second, received the prize, a tankard, for the person who attended most meetings but did not win. It was deemed to have been a good series, having climaxed on Sunday at Grimwith
Results to follow
Posted 5: 36 PM Monday, September 3, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Emma Spruce and Lucy Ford win the South Zone Qualifer. A competitive fleet of 20 Mirrors raced on Sunday as part of the South Zone Qualifiers. Emma and Lucy were on fire tieing with National Squad Members, Sprekleys in their new Winder Mirror. Izzy Fitzgerald and Lisa McDanell came in third. The racing was proceeded by coaching with Nicky McGregor, it was pleasing to see so many of the newcomers achieving excellent results. Next and final round of the qualifiers at the Zone Championships, Weymouth (29-30 Sep)
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Posted 12: 00 PM Monday, September 3, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Photos from English Braid's Nationals. Some great photos from the Nationals, both ashore and afloat.
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Posted 11: 03 AM Monday, September 3, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Brightlingsea Belles dominate Youth and Juniors. Millie Newman and Sarah Bines are 2007 Junior Champions, from Tom and James Lovesey, with Hugo Sloper and Aiden McCarthy third.
Emma and Martina Barry are 2007 Youth Champions, from Chris Rust and Oliver Newman, with Ed Grey and Hannah Mitchell third.
Posted 8: 17 PM Wednesday, August 29, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
2008 Europeans - sign up for transportation now. Following the Euros meeting at the Nationals, it is great to see so many interested in going to Sweden. As discussed we need to firm up the transportation arrangements in the next month and are asking people to put down a non returnable deposit to reserve their space.
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Posted 9: 54 AM Wednesday, August 29, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Hector and Ben win the Nationals. Hector and Ben Cisneros make it a hat trick by winning the 2007 Mirror Nationals. 2005 World Champion Ross Kearney, sailing with Katy Jones second, Emma and Martina Barry third.
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Posted 7: 02 PM Tuesday, August 28, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Zone Squads - Please Apply NOW. For keen juniors the RYA Zone Squads are an fantastic way of progressing your sailing, with six winter training weekends. Great fun and chance to sail with like minded sailors and friends. Zone Squad sailors are typically 9-14. The first stage is to get an application into the RYA now, then enter (in advance) the Zone Championships and Open Coaching in September. The qualifiers are based over two weekends. Any questions please contact me or your local RYA HPM.
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Posted 1: 23 PM Wednesday, August 15, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
James Ellis medals at Youth Worlds. Former twice Mirror Champion, James Ellis has just won the Bronze Medal at the ISAF Youth Worlds in the 29er, joining the growing band of Mirror sailors who have medal-ed at this prestigious event and the Olympics. Just behind James in fourth place, Taariq JACOBS a former Mirror sailor from South Africa, demonstrating how good a training ground the Mirror fleet is.
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Posted 11: 58 AM Sunday, July 22, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
First Timers at the Nationals. For those who have never attended a National Championships before, this year's event will be a great event to start with. For the newcomers there will on water coaching to ensure you make the most of the event, we will also be pairing you up with an experienced buddy to show you the ropes. There are some super prizes, free food and great socials, great chance to meet and make lots of Mirror friends.
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Posted 7: 01 AM Thursday, July 19, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
New email address for Duffins. Please note that Duffin's have a new email address different from that in the yearbook, duffinmarine AT myway.com Alastair is still busy making some of the fastest and most Gorgeous looking Mirrors in the world. With kits from £795 and shells £1950 this is by far the cheapest way to get a new Mirror. Duffin boats have won the last Worlds, Euros and Nationals.
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Posted 9: 52 PM Tuesday, July 17, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Youth Squad Applications. Angus Carlisle has taken over the management of the MCA Youth Squad and already has put together a great programme for 07/08. The ultimate aim is to send a strong Youth team to the 2009 Worlds and win. The Youth Squad has a strong history of success, helping those who have started and progressed through the RYA Junior squads realise their full potential and win at the highest level. World Champions Anna MacKenzie and Holly Scott certainly benefited, with others like Natalie Roach also winning championships. For those older juniors applying for the National Squad it is well worth submitting an application to the Youth Squad at the same time.
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Posted 10: 57 AM Tuesday, July 17, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Juniors on their way to Holywood. The RYA Squad for the Irish Northern Championships has now been selected. The Northerns will be held at the Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club, Holywood near Belfast. The event will give the juniors valuable International experience and the chance to part of a team with coach support. Matt Burge, former top Mirror sailor, 420 National Champion and South Zone Coach will be the team coach. The team is a s follows :
Ed Grey/Hannah Mitchell
Roesanna Yeoward/Harry Yeoward
Tom Lovesey/James Lovesey
Hugo Sloper Aidan McCarthy
Inge-lisa Hansen/Jack Moore
James Brant Robert Knee
A few other GBR boats are also likely to be competing, others are most welcome to join us in Ireland, please let me know if interested.
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Posted 7: 45 PM Sunday, June 24, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Great photos from the Southerns. Fotoboat were out on both days at Itchenor and have captured some great photos of top Mirror sailing. The wind and waves on the Saturday produced some fantastic action shots, look out for the photos of flying Mirrors, who said who these boats are slow!!!
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http://www.ocean-pictures.co.uk/
Posted 9: 42 AM Thursday, June 21, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
National Squad Applications. With the 06/07 National Squad recently finishing, now is the time for those looking to qualify for next RYA NJS to get their applications in. Viv Nanopoulou, Mirror National Junior Squad Co-ordinator will be at Itchenor this weekend, so an ideal opportunity to get the forms in and save the postage. National Squad Coach, Peter Aitken will also be around on the Sunday if you have any questions about the squad and qualification etc.
Click for Selection Criteria
Click for Application Form Criteria
Posted 10: 33 AM Friday, June 15, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Mirror Holiday. MCA have teamed up with leading sailing holiday operator to organise a Mirror holiday on the South of France
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Posted 7: 00 PM Friday, June 8, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Centremain now legal. The centremain has now had the final seal of approval from ISAF and will be legal for the first MCA Championship of the season this weekend at Bewl. The GNAV has also been approved, to give an option for those looking for more cockpit space for their crew.
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Posted 12: 29 PM Thursday, April 5, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
Mirror Worlds Video. Peter Aitken has been busy putting together a short video on some of the action from the World Championships, can you spot the shark circling the Mirror fleet ready to devour unsuspecting sailors.
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Posted 10: 47 PM Wednesday, March 21, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
English Braids to sponsor 2007 Nationals. The Nationals Organising Team have been very busy with preparations for the 2007 Championships and have some great things in store to make this a fantastic event.
For those attending their first Nationals there will be plenty on offer including coach support. We are pleased to announce that leading ropes manufacturer English Braids have lent their support as title sponsor. Entry is now open.
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Posted 4: 33 PM Thursday, February 22, 2007 by Simon Lovesey
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