The Axbridge Animals, the Team15 windsurfers of Bristol Corinthian Yacht Club, were narrowly beaten into second place at the Team15 Champions Cup national final involving 90 competitors at Pitsford Water in Northampton on the weekend of 13-14 October.

The Animals, who, despite their South West home compete in the Team 15 South zone, qualified for the final for the first time this year, and lost to the Hythe Hotshots from the South East.

However, their performance was outstanding, according to competition organiser for the South Zone, Chris Lewis: "To finish runners-up at the Champions Cup is a great achievement and one that reflects the huge efforts made by the Animals in this Olympic year. I am thrilled for the team and cannot express my gratitude enough for all the teams and sailors that gave us a season to remember."

The Roseland Wave Riders, who represented the South West Zone in the final, came a creditable fifth, with Lowenna Penny receiving a Merit Award for her team spirit after she helped out her younger team mates who were struggling a little during the races.