West Kirby Warriors beat the odds to become West Zone Champions
Last year’s National Team 15 Champions, West Kirby Warriors, secured their place at this year’s Champions Cup with a convincing victory last Saturday at Astbury Sailsports.
In light shifty winds the Warriors knew they had a battle on their hands against Team Astbury, windsurfing on home water and used to the conditions. Manley Mere Katz were also a threat, their confidence riding high following their strong second placing at the previous event in Glossop.
The Warriors though, need not have worried. Though Team Asbury started well, scoring firsts in the first 3.5, 5.5 and 6.8 races, the Warriors fought back hard and ended the day with a near perfect score with victories in the 3.5 (Will Mooney), 4.5 (Rupert Trambusti), and 6.8 fleets (Oliver Bradley-Baker). This, coupled with second places in 3.5 (Samson King), 4.5 (Isaac Bradley-Baker), 5.5 (Sam Coldham) and 6.8 (Joash Knight), put them beyond reach.
The team’s results are all the more remarkable considering the Warriors haven’t been able to windsurf at their usual venue in West Kirby due to the lake having been drained whilst repairs were carried out to the wall. With the lake due to re-open on the 24th July, the Warriors will be trying to make up for lost time and will be training hard for the Champion’s Cup in October. Head coach Simon Moore is already working on the training programme.
The club has also faced financial challenges having failed to secure any grant funding despite having made numerous applications. The club is actively seeking sponsors to help with the purchase of new kit and to fund the costs of making the trip to Rutland. Anyone interested in offering the club support should contact David Bradley, c/o Wirral Sailing Centre.
