Kettering Number Eight!
Words Bella Laughton-Clark, Images Michael White
The 8th Kettering Wooden Boat Rally 2024 went off last weekend without a hitch.
The maritime gods smiled upon us, with lots of sunshine and winds tailor-made for the wooden boat vessels. A gentle breeze fluttering between 10 -12 knots filled the sails throughout the weekend.
Saturday morning started with the relaunch of the AWBF's restored Derwent Class yacht Undine, which was a momentous occasion in the maritime heritage world. Over 100 wooden boat enthusiasts witnessed the occasion.
This was followed by the grand spectacle of the sail-past, where boats of varied sizes, designs and rigs paraded their elegance. The maxi yachts of the Round Bruny Race even graced us with their presence. The keel boat rally kicked off at 2pm, which synchronised perfectly with the strengthening sea breeze. The evening descended with wooden boat folk heading to the Kettering yacht club, where tales were swapped over a beer and some pizza.
Sunday's weather again, was maritime bliss with the Derwent Class yachts heading out for heats early, with the World Champs kicking off at 1pm. The organised chaos provides a great spectacle, off the shores of Kettering. Again, the keel boat rally kicked off at 2pm, encouraging all levels of sailors to get involved.
Sunday evening saw the presentation evening back at the KYC, with tacos and bar open, prizes were drawn out of the hat thanks to several kind sponsors. After a glorious weekend of on-water events, the KWBR provides a great opportunity to celebrate wooden boats.
Here's to 2026.
