West Kirby, Liverpool. 10th May, 2014. MI Finance boats at the British Open Team Racing Championships Trophy 2014. Sailing’s Premier League ‘The Wilson Trophy’ 200 Olympic-class sailors compete annually on Kirby’s marine amphitheatre in one of the World’s favourite events where hundreds of spectators follow 300 short, sharp frenzied races in three-boat teams jostling on a marina lake the size of a football field to earn the coveted title: “Wilson Trophy Champion.” Credit: Cernan Elias/Alamy Live News


The Wilson Trophy British Open Team Racing Championships held on West Kirby’s Marine Lake this (9th – 11th May hosted by West Kirby Sailing Club (WKSC). Now in its 65th year, this unique and spectacular team race sailing event welcomes 32 of the finest teams from around the UK, USA and Ireland including three teams from WKSC itself. The 192 competitors will be sailing in 12-foot dinghies known as Fireflies while under the close observation of some of the best umpires from the UK and overseas. The Marine Lake, otherwise known as the ‘theatre of dreams’, provides a natural amphitheatre where members of the public are encouraged to watch the action from the Grandstand on West Kirby promenade (by the old baths). The Visitors Centre and live commentary also help to explain some of the nuances of the racing to spectators and passers-by. David Taylor, Commodore of West Kirby Sailing Club, said: “We are thrilled to be hosting this fantastic event, now in its 65th year. It’s great to see so many people travelling from near and far to sail on the Marine Lake and enjoy its beautiful surroundings. “The club is extremely proud to host this event each year and we always aim to provide both the competitors and our local community with a weekend of sporting action that they won’t forget.” The three-day event will be an exciting and fun weekend for spectators and competitors alike with a thrilling demonstration of top level sailing, which is free to watch. The final rounds take place on Sunday from 1pm, when the action reaches its climax, with the top eight of 32 teams entering play-offs to take home the celebrated trophy. The 2014 Wilson Trophy is delighted by the support it has received from many individuals and businesses, including leading sponsors: Carlsberg, Everite Windows, GJW Direct, MI Finance and Speed Medical.


Size: 2048px × 3072px
Location: West Kirby, Wirral, Merseyside, UK
Photo credit: © EnVogue_Photo / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
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