Tim Fells – 05th June 2022
After a long third day sitting in the sun and waiting for wind that never reappeared, the LARK competitors threw themselves into the Crews Union and Fancy-Dress Night with huge enthusiasm. This was no doubt encouraged by a forecast for the final day of strong Easterlies, throwing a large surf straight onto the beach.
After the dramas of launching and recovery in the benign conditions on Friday, there was almost zero likelihood of the final races happening. This was of little consolation for Matt White and Marion Enkel, sitting at the top of the pile with a cast of 17 Lark National wins across the next seven boats champing at their heels.
In reality, after a monsoon overnight and little wind in the early hours, the breeze was building and the surf already pounding as the bleary eyed started to wake. PRO Mike Ward made the only decision he could and had abandoned racing by 08.30, allowing an early prize-giving, pack up and depart.
Crowned as 2022 LARK Champions were Matt White and Marion Enkel, winning the title for the first time. Schooled in the LARK hot bed of Waldringfield, they have been racing in the class on and off since the 90s. Consequently, the win was a huge and emotional moment for this popular team. It was highly deserved as in light and sloppy conditions that were challenging for a high-quality fleet, they put in a number of dominant performances.
Winners of the Silver Fleet in 10th place with a very strong performance in their first LARK event were Matthew Shorrock and Katie Kinver from Frensham Pond. Matthew, clearly a chip off the block from the Shorrock LARK dynasty, also starred both socially and as a winner of the Duckhams.
Winners of the Bronze Fleet in 24th place were Mat Newton-Sherlock and Simon Morris from Barnt Green, another long-term LARK home that is seeing a resurgence in numbers under Mat’s leadership.
Altogether this was a very successful event for the class. A strong growth in entrants combined with a very positive and fun vibe, celebrating the traditional virtues of quality racing and enthusiastic socials. With a big focus on supporting families to enjoy the event, there were almost as many under 10 year olds present as entrants!
A big thank you to the Pentewan Sands SC team both on and off the water for working so hard for our enjoyment and to MUSTO for their continued generous sponsorship of the class.
The LARK championships 2023 will be at Brixham YC on Sunday May 28th to Wednesday May 31st.
