Manningtree Town Regatta took place on 20/21 July 2019 and was hosted by the Stour Sailing Club. It is a whole town event and is supported by local businesses and organisations.
There were sailing races on both days and competition was strong across a range of boat classes in spite of the tremendous downpour and thunderstorm the competitors experienced at the start of Saturday’s races. Luckily Sunday’s weather was much improved and almost balmy!
There were a number of Have A Go opportunities for members of the public to try – all for free – including paddle boarding, dinghy sailing, kayaking and wildlife and photography trips. Saturday’s 7 am Yoga on the beach was cancelled due to the weather conditions but Sunday’s session went ahead and was well attended.
The firework display on the Saturday night was truly spectacular and enjoyed by the whole town.
The famous mud sports was held on Sunday morning in glorious weather with a great number of children, men and women taking part, The hotly contested tug of war witnessed teams fighting it out with Rose Builders Ltd triumphing in both the men’s and women’s team categories.
Children’s races were held on the beach and included bail the boat out as well as their own tug of war with the children beating the adults – which they enjoyed very much.
The antiques fair was held in the town on the Sunday with lots of people looking through the variety of stalls.
The Sailing Club’s marquee was open for tea, coffee and cake throughout the weekend proving to be a great spot to enjoy the racing and the beach events.