The halls were packed to the rafters with spectacular boats from the old time classics of the Cherub Class, who showcased 60 years with a selection of boats from across the decades, to the breath taking ‘Invictus’, the only C- Class wing sail Catamaran in Europe.

From hard core racers to cruisers, families and youngsters the show had something for everyone. “This has been the best Dinghy Show I have seen yet! I’ve loved it. Some brilliant boats and a great buzz” commented Mark Jardine, Editor of Yachts and Yachting Online.

Top Laser sailor Paul Goodison took time out of his busy training schedule in Palma to fly back home especially for the show to join fellow Team Volvo for life sailor, Helena Lucas, Skandia Team GBR sailor, Penny Clark and Olympic double gold medallist Sarah Gosling to open the show on Saturday. Main stage talks including an Olympic update and a Q+A with Paul attracted big crowds during the day. Helena also took to the stage alongside TV’s Chris Packham to present the winners of the 2010 Volvo Eco Challenge with their cheques and awards. Helensburgh Sailing Club took the top prize of £5,000 followed by runners up South Staffordshire, Ripon and Papercourt. She finished the day back on the main stage launching the new Team Sailability Volunteer Logbooks.

2010 Volvo Eco Challenge Awards

Paul was also on hand giving out expert sailing tips on the Volvo RYA Youth and the Laser stands and finishing the show presenting newly appointed Volvo Champion Clubs, Beccles, Bartley, Royal Harwich and Weirwood Sailing Clubs with their awards.

During the afternoon the busy sailors escaped the hustle and bustle of the show to join the kids in the brand new Volvo ‘Chill out Zone’. The show was the first outing for the unique bubble, which will be touring Britain- heading to all of Volvo’s sailing events throughout the summer. It’s the ideal place for young sailors to relax and discuss the days racing plus a chance to get interactive and play the latest games on iPads.

Olympic bronze medallist and top RS: X Windsurfer Nick Dempsey joined the show on Sunday to share his top tips and experiences with young sailors and parents. He took to the Volvo main stage for Sunday's Olympic update and a Q+A session.

“We have been delighted with the number of people visiting the show this year and helping us make the show’s 60th birthday a huge success. Thanks to title sponsor Volvo and supporting sponsors Yachts & Yachting and Suzuki. We are now looking to 2012 when we hope to make the show even bigger and better than ever”, concluded Paul Bayliss.
 

Read Paul's latest blog online now http://bit.ly/fY74Aq

Follow Team Volvo for life on Facebook www.facebook.com/volvocarssailing