Falmouth Finn Festival 2012
The Finn UK Open Nationals and the Gold Cup 2012 organised by the Royal Cornwall Yacht Club is underway in Falmouth Bay today until May 18th. It is set to be the biggest most competitive regatta ever to be hosted in Falmouth. The two week regatta will see up to 106 entries from 25 nations compete in the open waters around Falmouth comprising of 7 races over 3 days. The Gold Cup race will commence on May 13th with many of the sailors taking part in the previous Nationals in preparation. Many locals and visitors will be watching two times Olympic gold medallist Ben Ainslie who returns to the waters on which his sailing career began at the age of 8.
Falmouth Harbour - Image Courtesy of :- Ian Cocklin Photography.co.uk
So where are the best places to watch the races?
‘Pendennis Point’ offers the best panoramic view from the outer harbour round to the expansive and stunning bay. With views of Pendennis Castle, St Mawes Castle, St Anthony’s Lighthouse and everything in between ‘the point’ is one of the best places to be.
Pendennis Point - Image courtesy- Ian Cocklin Photography.co.uk
The seafront is another option with two accessible and well facilitated beaches Gyllyngvase and Castle. Here you can sit back unwind and watch the action on the water while less interested children can play.
Of course there is the option of staying in town and enjoying the hustle and bustle of the unfolding regatta that begins at The Falmouth Watersports centre. There will be celebrations throughout the town and on Events Square.
What is happening off the water?
From May 1st you will be able to take a closer look at the single handed, cat-rigged dinghy which is the longest serving Olympic class. ‘Rita’ belonging to Ben Ainslie will be on display at the National Maritime Museum throughout the Finn Regatta.
From May 2nd the Museum will also host the ‘Our sporting life- Sail for gold’, celebrating the history of the British Olympic and Paralympics.
May 18th at the Events Square there will be an opportunity to meet some of the sailors taking part from 10.30 – 11.15am. So grab your cameras and autograph books.
The closing ceremony will be held in the festival marquee on events square followed by live music from Area 51.
Where will you be watching and who will you be supporting? Visit Falmouth would love to see your snaps! Post them up on our Facebook page, Visit Falmouth.
