Nigel Barrow Evening Talk

Published 19:33 on 23 Feb 2026

Both experienced and novice model yacht racers got some excellent advice from top model yacht racer Nigel Barrow on the evening of Wednesday 18th February. 18 sailors braved a biblical downpouring of rain to listen to Nigel's talk which started with his sailing c/v from cadet National Champion to Olympic 470 contender and then onto big boats.

Nigel then talked about his journey into model yacht racing and shared many of his top tips many of which you can find on his website https://www.nigelbarrow.co.uk/home. As a total newcomer to model yacht racing, my top take aways from the evening for when I try racing were:

• The importance of ensuring your DF 65 is waterproof by putting epoxy dabs on through hull fittings
• That sail set up will be a continuing challenge but it is crucial to ensure sails are clear of mast and backstay and that the jib boom does not stick out in front of the boat. Mast ram wants to be as far aft as possible (except on the A+ rig) and the battery also unless it is light airs.
• The dangers of being caught in irons while tacking or because sails are pinned in too tight. Avoid this by easing your sails before any gusts and if you are caught in irons, ease your sails right out until the boat drops off onto a reach and then bring sails in slowly.
• That seeing where your boat is in relation to marks and where the wind is on your boat are new challenges & a highly visible burgee is a benefit.

For those who want to try model yacht racing, Steve Bullmore is our enthusiastic and knowledgeable class captain. Racing takes place on Thursdays and Saturdays 10.00-12.00 and the club owns 3 DF65s which are available to hire on the Club website.

Last updated 19:33 on 23 February 2026