External links:-

[Osprey Class Association]

The Osprey Fleet
Osprey fleet captain:

Ospreys are very fast two-man boats; they are almost 18' long and carry 14m² of sail with the crew on a trapeze to keep it upright. On the downwind legs a 17.2m² spinnaker is hoisted, resulting in some spectacular high speed action. The minimum hull weight is a hefty 134kg meaning that they carry excess crew weight without hampering performance - the total crew can be over 28 stone!

This sturdy construction also results in very long lasting boats - even those built in the 1960s are still extremely competitive, which helps to keep secondhand prices low - a boat capable of winning an open meeting can be bought for under £4000. Most of the best boats are wooden but you might be able to find a good plastic version. With such a wide variety of competitive boats, it isn't possible to buy your way to the front of the Osprey fleet!

Blithfield has a selection of Ospreys that can often be seen engaging in close racing. The fleet travels to the Nationals and Inlands and normally has boats 'up there' fighting it out for the chocolates, but the main ingredient is to remember that it's all about having fun. The racing is competitive but there is support available at all levels, especially in the bar after racing. If you've got a healthy appetite for real ale you'll definitely be amongst friends!

If you are looking for a base for your existing Osprey, or are thinking of joining us in an exciting boat that holds both its value and speed long term, then come down and see us. The reservoir allows easy launching and in big winds, it develops some waves that these boats love so much.

Jon Batt
Osprey 1284