Dowerglen duo sails for championships
Joined by his 77-year-old father-in-law, Herbert Osman, Langman described their experience as “once-in-a-lifetime” and “priceless”.
For Dowerglen resident Roger Langman, competing in the Marriott Mirror World Championships was more than just a sailing regatta, it was a personal milestone.
Joined by his 77-year-old father-in-law, Herbert Osman, Langman described their experience offshore Durban as “once-in-a-lifetime” and “priceless”.
Langman, who returned to sailing after a long hiatus, bought his Mirror dinghy just a year ago and has since been a regular on the water at Benoni Sailing Club.
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“I sailed a lot as a teenager. I did the Round the Island Race in 1994 and won. These days, sailing is just a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon,” he said.
Taking part in the Mirror Worlds, which took place from April 14 – 19 and was hosted by Point Yacht Club, was a major step up and one filled with emotion.
“My crew member is 77 years old, and to share his first sail on the sea was priceless,” said Langman.
Despite tough conditions, the pair finished a commendable 33rd overall.
Reflecting on the event, Langman added, “Our first launch on the beach was really exciting!
“We were way out of our comfort zone, but what an amazing week and experience.
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“The sea needs to be respected, it can be very unforgiving.
“For us, there were great days and brutal days.”
Logistics posed an early challenge, but Langman commended the event organisers: “It was a logistical nightmare to get the boat down to Durban, but once down there, the facilities were world-class.
The event was professionally run with a real emphasis on safety.”
“Langman had high praise for his Mirror dinghy, Splash: “We had no issues. She was amazing and coped so well. Splash is in very good condition!”
The regatta, managed by Race Officer Kevin Bingham, comprised 10 races over six days, with competitors facing a range of conditions from 25 – 30 knot south-westerlies on the opening day to choppy north-easterlies on the final leg.
Swells reached up to four metres, giving sailors the full Durban experience.
Bryce Bower, acting rear commodore of Dinghies at Point Yacht Club, expressed pride in the event.
“It was great seeing these boats with so much history experience our beautiful conditions offshore Durban. The camaraderie was brilliant.”
