As the year draws to a close, it’s time to reflect on what has been another eventful 2024 – a year marked by a mix of economic challenges, inspiring customer stories, and unforgettable moments spent sailing with family.
First, I must mention the team sailing on the yacht Ngaire, a local East Coast Nicholson 32 family boat for which we’ve been making sails for over 30 years! Ngaire entered the Round the Island race this year, the team thought it would be a cracking day out, however as the day approached the forecast tanked, competitors withdrew, the forecast was so poor that some classes were withdrawn. On the day gusts of up-to 50 knots at the needles didn’t put the team off.
Here’s how Lydia owner of Ngaire described the day:
“We had a very exciting and utterly exhausting race round the Island. 900 entries 500 starters 140 finishers, we slogged on for 9 hours and to our great surprise won our section and our class, bringing home some beautiful silverware. Reefed Genoa doing 8 knots then both reefed on the beat getting up to 11 knots of course we had a superb boat and the best sails. Rory was a mega star he shared the helm with my daughter Helen, grandson of 16 Peter, Adrian & me were crew. So, 3 of us are 70 plus!” Huge respect to the team on board and to all of the 140 finishers
This year, the economy presented a few challenges, rising costs, inflation, and some lingering brexit / covid hangovers. Despite the economic turbulence, it is you, the customers who continue to be the guiding stars, reminding us why we do what we do. Your loyalty, feedback, and support keep us motivated to push through tough times. Every interaction, from a first-time customer to long-standing clients, was a reminder of the relationships we’ve built and the trust placed in us.
Thank you to each and every one of you for your continued partnership. Your kindness and understanding, especially during the more challenging moments, it makes all the difference. I look forward to serving you in the years ahead.
On a personal note, although we took no part in any major championships, the highlights of my sailing year are still sailing with my kids. I’m very lucky that nearly all of the sailing I do is on family boats. The laughter, and the sense of freedom that only a sailboat can bring. Sailing is not so much about what boat you are sailing it’s who you sail with, as crew or competitors. Sailing is a chance to disconnect from the busy world, get on the water with family or friends. For me, teaching my kids to race at Felixstowe Ferry a tricky mix of river and open water racing, is the highlight of my week. These moments reminded me of the importance of balance – that work, though essential, can never replace the joy of time spent with family. My daughters joy winning her first trophy this year (actually she got another for best Cadet / Junior as well, double the smile!) was great to see, as those who had to wait for the ‘diva’s arrival at prizegiving will testify… you had to be there!)
Cowes Week sometimes feels like being back at school, the team clearly have the ability, if only they could apply it at the right times! A strong start to our regatta with the new-to-the-team Victory Z75, we faded away as the week went on; Even though we didn’t make the podium (it’s not about the winning, honest!) racing with family on a boat at Cowes week, and of course the socials(!) remains a highlight of my year (thank you Victory Class). Well done to Russell and team on Z80, worthy winners.
Here’s to a bright and prosperous 2025, filled with more sailing adventures, great customers, and a brighter economic outlook.
As Charles Dickens said in the Pickwick Papers.
“Happy, happy Christmas, that can win us back to the delusions of our childhood days, recall to the old man the pleasures of his youth, and transport the sailor and the traveller thousands of miles away, back to his own fireside and his quiet home!”
Merry Christmas to you.
Simon
Suffolk Sails
Loft closed 23rd December – 3rd January 2025