RECREATIONAL race night sailors have been competing on 2012 waters in a new series of informal, fun races.

The first batch of race night sessions has now drawn to a close at the Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy (WPNSA) but new participants are needed for the next six-week series, which starts on Thursday, June 2.

The races take place every Thursday evening from 6pm until 7.30pm and welcome both members and non-members to take part in some light-hearted racing.

Twenty boats took part in the first evening race series with participants of all ages and abilities, from various classes, competing on a handicap system, including a large turnout of single-hander Laser dinghy sailors.

Series two gets underway on Thursday, with the third series starting on August 18.

The launch of the new race series is being run in conjunction with SailLaser so for those less confident about racing, SailLaser will offer on-water tuition covering a variety of skills and techniques on a Wednesday night, to equip people for the new race series.

Chris Knight, business manager at the Sailing academy, said: “We are aiming to build a fun and friendly club atmosphere by getting people involved in some light-hearted racing, followed by a pleasant social drink in the fantastic facilities that we have here.

“We hope that the new racing series will enable people to meet new and likeminded people, sharing some exciting experiences on the water and bringing a social side to the academy.”

Local club sailor Andy Jinks, added: “It is great to be involved with the new race series programme this year as it ensures a good turnout for the weekly club racing and we are all looking forward to building up a strong series for our overall results.

“The racing so far has been friendly and fun, but I am sure the competition will heat up towards the end.”

For non-members there will be a fee of £30 for the series or £10 for a single evening.

It will also be possible to hire boats from SailLaser, the price will be £10 for a single and £20 for a double.

For more information contact the WPNSA via email georgina.lee@wpnsa.org.uk or call 01305 866000.