Top dogs reclaim Welsh title 

Gwent windsurfers the Reservoir Dogs retained their Welsh title by the narrowest of margins in a thrilling finale and will go on to represent Wales in the Team 15 (T15) Champions Cup Final next month.

They claimed the final event, at Llandegfedd Reservoir, making best use of home advantage to put them into a tie-break with Mumbles Mutineers, with that final leg victory putting the Gwent Adventures team through to the national finals in Pitsford, Northampton.

It was an exciting climax to a season of racing which has seen record numbers taking part in the T15 windsurfing in Wales, with three clubs battling it out for the title and all participants enjoying their fun time on the water learning a new skill.

It was a family affair for both the Mutineers and the Dogs with twins Will and Ieuan Lambert competing in the 3.5m and 4.5m classes of windsurfing for the Mutineers and brothers Jake and Dylan Chase in action for the Reservoir Dogs with Dylan winning on a Techno 6.8 and younger brother Jake second in the 3.5m class.

Ieuan Lambert clinched the 3.5m class winning every race, while Will was victorious in the 4.5m class with four race victories and two second place finishes. Newcomers Jake Smallwood and Dale Jones were also worthy of special mention in the 3.5m class. Rory Jackson of the Mutineers claimed the 5.8 class.

"It was a fantastic day's racing, it was good to see a record number of competitors and also great to see three teams battling it out for the Welsh title this year," said T15 co-ordinator Stuart Meese.

"The team tactics of the Mumbles Mutineers placed them in good stead to win the series trophy with Swansea Watersports out of contention. They had top place in every event, missing out only because they did not have a full team to bring them level with the Reservoir Dogs.

"The Dogs won the tie-break by virtue of winning the last event, but you could not ask for a closer series with the Dogs holding onto their top place for another year."

Supported by industry leaders Tushingham/Starboard and Neil Pryde, T15 was set up by the RYA to help make windsurfing more accessible and appealing to youngsters at a grass roots level.

Fun and informal training sessions take place at T15 clubs all over the country for kids up to the age of 15, which are run weekly by specialist RYA coaches.

The T15 inter-club championship takes place regionally over the summer adding a competitive edge and race training for those keen to hone their skills.

Kit can be borrowed from the clubs and the cost of sessions is kept low.

To get involved with Team15 and locate your nearest local club visit www.team15.org.uk or contact the RYA 0845 345 0400.