| Photos by David Cullen |
| David Cullen and crew on King One have just returned from a very successful trip to Koninklijke YC (KYCN) - in Nieuwpoort, Belgium - where they took part in the Half Ton Classic 2009. |
 David Cullen & Crew of King One receiving the "Half Ton True Spirit Trophy" |
| The event commenced with a practice race on 24th August followed by a mix of inshore and offshore races from 25th to 29th August. Eventually finishing fourth after nine races out of a fleet of 23 comprising boats from UK, Belgium, France, Finland, Germany, Spain & Holland, the crew confirmed the myth having won the initial practice race. With the last two days blown out due to 30+ knots, King One's chances of a podium place disappeared. The event was eventually won by a semi pro crew on General Tapioca from the home port. Sailed in winds of between 10 and 25 knots and in 25 degrees and sun, King One excelled both off-shore and on-shore. |
 The King One table at the dinner |
| Bringing home a haul of overall and day prizes, they were particularly proud of receiving the "Half Ton True Spirit Trophy" for the crew that epitomized the spirit of combining competitiveness with camaraderie amongst participants. Belting out a chorus of 'Molly Malone' at the prize giving, the King One crew were commended for combining great results with late nights, their fine U2 rendition having sabotaged the band, their lending of spare sails to a crew in need and for demonstrating what beer drinking is all about to the Belgians! |
 Dave being interviewed by Belgacom TV |
| The event was heavily sponsored and Belgacom TV covered the event daily and are also making a documentary on the event. |
 Dave presented a HYC burgee to the Commodore of KYCN and he presented a KYCN burgee to Dave |
| Next event will be in the UK in two years. Koninklijke YC, Nieuwpoort (KYCN) Website : Half Ton Classic 2009 >> |
 Crew Transport |