News

13:29 Wednesday 12 Aug 2015 Sue Pelling/CWLYoungest skipper in Town recommends the Cowes Week experience

Alex Downer (13) – youngest skipper at the regatta – photo Rick Tomlinson/CWL

Alex Downer (13) is the youngest skipper competing at Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week. Sailing a relatively old, 1979-built Squib, Panther 3, with crewman Jon Evans, Downer says after sailing for a few days last year he was totally hooked on Cowes.

“I have been sailing since I was seven, first in Optimists and then Lasers at Royal Victoria YC but having raced at this regatta last year, I was determined to skipper my own boat. I did however, have a bit of a challenge on my hands because I didn’t have a suitable boat. Then it occurred to me that my mum and dad – Mark and Jo Downer – were sailing an Etchells this year, which meant their Squib was not being used.

“Although they are a bit precious about their boat, I managed to persuade them to lend it to me. To be honest I think they are happy about the fact I am on the water too, rather than just sitting on the shore watching.”

Downer, who has clocked up some respectable results this week including a sixth place on Monday, and who is currently lying eighth overall in the 30-strong fleet, was keen to point out that young dinghy sailors, who have a chance of borrowing a boat should really consider taking part in the future.

 “I am really enjoying the regatta, not only the racing but also the camaraderie among those of similar age. It is great fun, and I would highly recommend it to other young sailors looking to compete in Cowes Week. The Squib is a particularly good class for young sailors too, because it is often possible to get hold of an older, affordable boat, like the one I am sailing, and still be competitive.”

Offering advice to other youngsters considering taking part next year, Downer concluded: “Learning about The Solent tides is essential.”