From the Editor
Another very enjoyable Classics with great racing conditions on Saturday and a spectacular parade for both spectators and participants on Sunday. On shore the Dynamite Valley pint and the Pips pasty went down a treat as did the Polgoon Vineyard wine and the canapes provided by the volunteer team. The organising team had been concerned about the supper but the meal was enjoyed by those that attended and the Jumping Out duo provided some great jazz. The town was rocking with the 85 shanty bands in 27 venues. So, plenty of choice to listen and sing along. Cornwall My Home could often be heard in stereo depending on where you were located!
A big thank you to the team of fifteen who form the core group for the event and another 35 or so who help during the four days. Also, to our sponsors and advertisers who enable us to run the event without charging significantly more to participate and also enable us to award some great prizes. If you make use of any of our sponsors do mention Falmouth Classics.
The organising team would also like to thank the owners of the 160 vessels for participating in the 2025 event. Without you it would not happen!
Several participants have made comments using WhatsApp or have sent emails. If you would like to make a comment on the 2025 event please do so by emailing: info@falmouthclassics.org.uk. We love to receive comments both positive and those including suggestions for improvements.
Some of you may be aware that I am stepping down as Vice Chair of Falmouth Classics Association after almost nine years in role. During that time I have worked with three Chairman. It has been a very enjoyable experience and I have loved working with our team, the sponsors, advertisers and associates and of course meeting you all. I hope to remain as a director and may have some small role in future events.
The Chairman, Paul Hobson, and the organising team look forward to welcoming you to the 2026 event between 12 – 14 June. The web site is expected to be open for entries from early February.
The organising team trust that you arrived back in your next port safely and that you have a good season afloat.
Don Garman Vice Chairman and newsletter editor
Racing
The WhatsApp received several comments from the 90 or so participants on the Friday who, despite the drenching, the changing wind direction in the afternoon and the reducing wind strength and flooding tide appreciated the courses set by the new Chief Racing Officer, Nigel Sharp.
However, some boats were unfortunately timed out as they had exceeded the limit of two hours after the first boat in their class.
By Saturday the sun was shining and there was a strong breeze. Again, there were positive comments about the courses set for the now thirteen different classes on the water. The fleet was swelled by the addition of the Falmouth Working boats and local G Class boats. A windward mark was positioned towards the docks but several boats in one class decided on an alternative for the first mark resulting in several retirements.
The Carrick Roads was filled with over 100 classic craft racing, what a splendid sight!
Following last years experience with the 40 knot squall and follow up meetings with the harbour, Falmouth RNLI and the Coastguard the risk assessment and safety procedures for the event were reviewed, tightened up and executed by the excellent safety team under Simon Ambler and the Berthing Master Patrick Clark.
Number boards
Less were issued this year as sail numbers were used as an alternative both for racing and the parade. If you have not yet returned your boards then please contact Sue Treneer at: treneglos@hotmail.com.
Parades
The three Royal Navy Archer Class P2000 formed a grey arrow formation to lead the Parade of Sail and Power DSC 0654 and were followed by the current Falmouth lifeboats and two vintage lifeboats. The Dutch Brig Morgenster added to the fabulous scene with a good number of her square sails set on her two masts.
Several crews had responded to the fancy dress theme “Underwater” and there were mermaids, King Neptunes, crabs, cockles, jelly fish and seaweed a plenty on several yachts and gigs. Even the parade director, Kevin Maclean, in his RIB had made an effort.
The best presented yacht was Polly Agatha, the best presented motor boat City of Bradford, the best presented gig Penarrow and the best dressed crew Tumblehome IV.
The oldest vessel participating was the Leigh Bawley, Emma, built in 1845.
The Heather and Lay Steam and Small Boat Parade in the inner harbour included boats built between 1882 and 2024. Donna Capel, built in the 1940s as a Belgian fishing boat provided the turning mark and the judging vessel. The best handled boat was the St Mawes One Design No 4, the best presented steam boat Emma, the best presented boat Shrinkle and the best dressed crew Proteus.
Rowing and Sculling Competition
Teams from the Royal Navy, Salcombe, West Mersea and the Fal enjoyed some hot competition in both pairs and singles rowing and the sculling. Zak Clarke from West Mersea showed the way around the course in the sculling. Yet again there was a good audience willing on the competitors. A big thank you to Hardiesse, the Falmouth training ship, for loaning two pulling boats and to Mike Hobson and his team for organising the competition.
The Falmouth Classics Maritime Village
The village, this year concentrated on Custom House Quay, attracted a record number of exhibitors. The exhibitors, like those of us on the water, also received a drenching on Friday but reported a good footfall and sales on the following two days. Many have asked to return in 2026.
Prize Givings
Lieutenant Ed Winter RN, Commanding Officer of HMS Express, presented the prizes and trophies (Working Boat Classes only) to the winners of the day races. The £100 Teamac vouchers and medals for Race 3 were presented by Kris Wright, Area Sales Manager for Teamac.
The final prizegiving was held in the National Maritime Museum. Class winners were presented with trophies, an inscribed glass and a bottle of Polgoon wine by Chairman Paul Hobson, whilst Eleanor Copp from Tregothnan presented packages of Cornish tea and John from the local Musto store presented vouchers to three winners.
Noble Mast vouchers were also presented as well as Heather and Lay prizes for the steam and small boat parade.
Photography
Many thanks to Nigel Sharp, Jan Pentreath, Jim Totman and Jenna Lane for contributing images of the 2025 event. Unfortunately, few images were taken during Race 2 owing to the rain. Jan Pentreath had to return home after Race 1 to dry out his camera with a hair dryer! Images can now be found on the website www.falmouthclassics.org.uk/2025-gallery
West Country Classic Series sponsored by Hattiers Rum
Raced in Dartmouth and Falmouth Classics? Then why not race in the Looe Lugger Classics (25th – 27th July) and Fowey Classics (29th July – 1st August). Participation in at least two will ensure you are eligible for prizes or at least a West Country Classics Series flag and an enjoyable lunch in the Autumn.
