The inaugural Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club Anniversary RS21 Regatta has been hailed as an overwhelming success.

The five-race series was contested in blustery conditions in Granaway Deep on Saturday, when the club’s six-strong fleet of RS21 keelboats competed as a class for the first time.

“This was the first time we've been able to put all six on the start line for a one-design regatta,” Neil Redburn, the RHADC commodore, told The Royal Gazette. “We had a team from Colorado, Lake Dillon Yacht Club, fly in to join five RHADC crews.

“It was very windy, post-Hurricane Sam, so we ran five very short races in Granaway Deep in identical boats, which were very exciting and close with quick turnaround.”

Patrick Cooper dominated with two firsts and three seconds on the way to winning the regatta by three points over Roger Beach. Scott Snyder, of the United States, finished third another five points off the pace.

"We got off to a slow start with our plans for this fleet with the challenges of the pandemic but we are thrilled with the response,” added Redburn, who was pipped by visiting skipper Snyder for the final spot on the podium by a single point. “We're now looking to build out a calendar of local and international events in different formats.

“One thing for sure is that multiple short races keeps crews engaged and is enormous fun, and there are opportunities for match and team racing.”

The RHADC took possession in March of a fleet of RS21 sailboats, which were purchased last year.

“The RS21 responds to the need for a progressive, simple and affordable solution for keelboat clubs that increasingly see the opportunity for fleet ownership, league competition and training and pay-as-you-go sailing,” Redburn said.

“With the new fleet of boats getting on the water it is now easier than ever. Seasoned racers can get certified and charter a boat for racing or training, while those with less experience can take advantage of our adult or youth sailing programmes tailored to this new fleet of boats.

“The boat is designed with forgiving boat handling, low sheet loads, a mixture of sail options and stability. So we are now using them for youth sailing and adult sailing.”