We could bang on all day about what a fabulous venue East Lothian is, with a great race area, an experienced race team who manage big events every year, a cosy atmospheric clubhouse, a lovely little town, beautiful beaches and countryside and a warm Scottish welcome, all easier to get to from London than Cornwall in the Summer, but we thought it better to let our sailors tell you!
The RS400 Fleet
“The 400’s are an amazingly friendly group of sailors. Last year I took part in the RS400 Nationals. It was my first ever National event and only been sailing dinghies four years. I was nervous thinking everyone would be at such a higher level than me and I didn’t want to let down the helm or get in the way. HOWEVER – It was such a fantastic week with great friendly people, laughing and learning together. There was wide range of abilities but one common purpose – sailing 400’s and loving being on the water. You don't have to be a superstar, taking part makes you feel like a winner!”
Carol Milner
Carol Milner Andy Powell
"I joined the RS400 fleet 6 years ago as a complete novice in 527 and did my first Nationals in the same year. It’s a wonderful fleet with some great sailors, but also racing for everyone right through the fleet. However, off the water is where the RS400 fleet comes into its own - lovely socials with wonderful people."
RS400 Technical Rep, Andy Powell
In response to a new RS400 sailor asking about events Mick Whitmore said:
"I’m sure you would be welcome at any RS event, and you certainly wouldn’t be getting in the way of ‘Top Boats’. The Nationals is for everyone to enjoy. Good racing throughout the fleet from the front to the back. Look forward to seeing you at an event soon.”
The venue
2004 East Lothian RS400 Nationals Winner, Nick Craig, crewed by Keith Bedborough, who has already entered for 2022
"North Berwick is a great place to sail and to holiday! On a good day, the waves are big and nicely spread out, the sun shines and the local bars are open late. Of course, Scottish weather is changeable to say the least but varied sailing conditions make for a true test of ability! The sailing club has always been very friendly and are focused on dinghy sailing so know how to run a decent sailing champs., which they have done many times for many different classes.
I may be biased in my affection for North Berwick because my Gran used to live a few doors up from the sailing club. Although my Gran never set foot in a boat, sailing was somehow clearly a Craig destiny! I have enjoyed many aspects of North Berwick - we did an Enterprise Nationals there in the early 90s where we used to have afternoon tea at my Gran's after sailing followed by a long night of beer and sleeping in the car for the week because I was broke - best my dear old Gran didn't know some things!
There is plenty to do for all the family with a beach, vibrant town or for the energetic, a walk up the local mountain “The Law” . The town has developed a lot in recent years with traditional pubs surviving but mixed with trendy coffee shops. And of course, Edinburgh is pretty near for more culture or a big night out. So there is something for everyone at North Berwick and I’d thoroughly recommend a visit for the RS400 Nationals in 2022!”
Nick Craig
Steve Cockerill, of title sponsor Rooster Sailing and RS400 sailor, with his wife Sarah says
“East Lothian Sailing Club offers a traditional Scottish Welcome. The air is fresh, the sea is clean and a number of great sailing areas can be used depending on the wind direction.
The boat park is on the grass a short walk from the harbour where a cosy, welcoming club house is situated. Launching is easy on a sandy beach which is sheltered by all but a Northerly and a bustling main street is a short walk away.
The waves can vary greatly depending on wind direction, so every day is a challenge, but the evening walks along the sandy beaches as the sun sets, does it for me.”
2x RS400 Nationals Winner Stewart Roberston:
“as Steve says – The Sailing can be on the east course or west of Craigleith Island. There is a tide to be considered but does not dictate tactics entirely. In an easterly there can some great waves in the East Bay.
The Town has lots of nice places to eat with a good chip shop at the east end of the High St.
The club has good changing rooms, galley and seating area, a nice bar with great views over the water and a good supply of great beers, although you won't find Steve there!
For the family, there is a choice of beaches in the town, east and west, with putting greens near the dinghy park. The area has lots of other beaches nearby such as at Gullane and Yellowcraigs.
There are walks in and around the town, trips round the Bass Rock, the John Muir coastal walk which extends east and west and often runs adjacent to golf courses. (There are a lot of golf courses. As a friend once said 'I used to play golf but I'm better now'.) There are places like East Fortune Museum of flight, Myreton Motor museum, Tantalon and Dirleton Castle to visit.
The event is during the Edinburgh Festival so it would be possible to catch the odd show. There is also the 'Fringe by the Sea' - 5th - 14th August. Texas (who the older sailors may remember) are playing in North Berwick on Saturday 6th August.
Dunbar to the east is an interesting small town with a nice harbour and adjacent coast and is an option for accommodation if there isn't anything suitable in North Berwick.
North Berwick has always been a favourite place for our family and I'm sure the club will work hard to ensure that it is a great event to go to.”
Grab a cup of coffee and whet your appetite with this video, you'll get some feelgood vibes about the club's ethos as well as a taste of the venue!
STILL not coinvinced? Watch some more videos!
This is the Merlin Rockets, but soon it will be the RS400s!!
