International Moth Open at Rutland Sailing Club

 Ten International Moths, a Switch and a menacing forecast turned up to a spectacular weekend of racing at Rutland Sailing Club.

Friday saw a small group of three sailors take to the water for training in sunshine and a shifty 10-16 knots, setting the stage for what was to come.

Saturday’s forecast looked big, and after the committee’s on water wind reading showing averages up to 29 knots gusting 35, the decision was made to call off racing. Despite this, the fleet made the most of the conditions: some took to the water on wings and windsurfers, while others opted for a more relaxed walk around the reservoir’s nature reserve.

With a building breeze forecast on Sunday, the sailors were up for an early start. By 9:30AM the Class flag was out and the wind was a chilly (2°c) 12-15 knots. As sailors settled into the first upwind, Kyle Stoneham quickly established control and led from the outset. Behind him, Alex, Simon, and Callum battled closely, eventually consolidating into that order.

Race two began shortly after, with a slightly reduced breeze and an efficient turnaround by the race committee. By now, sailors had identified key patterns on the course: a preference for the left side off the start, followed by tactical positioning around the windward mark beneath Hambleton Peninsula. This area proved particularly demanding, with boats converging on port and shifts, gusts, and lulls disrupting approaches. On the second beat, the right side of the course became favoured, offering both pressure and a cleaner approach to the mark. Kyle once again navigated the conditions best, holding off Simon in the Switch to take another win.

The breeze built to 16–22 knots for race three, bringing more intensity. Kyle, starting late, relinquished his early dominance, opening the door for Simon to capitalise and take the win in the Switch. Alex followed closely, his steel foils showing strong pace, particularly downwind, while Callum’s port-tack start left him playing catch-up. Despite this, he showed impressive consistency and boat handling to close the gap over the two-lap race.

In the fourth and final race, with conditions easing slightly to 12–20 knots, Kyle returned to form. A strong start combined with superior boat speed in his V3 Bieker allowed him to control the race from the front, securing the event with three race wins. Behind him, Simon and Alex continued their close contest for second, with Alex narrowly coming out ahead. Callum added late drama at the finish, recovering from an overstayed line to fend off a charging Alex H with well-timed gybes in building chop.

After a shifty sail back ashore, the fleet regrouped in the clubhouse for food and a warm prize-giving, rounding off a memorable weekend of racing.

A busy few weeks await the Moth fleet with the Inland Championships hosted by Graham Water Sailing club at the end of the month. Preceded by pop up events and in the very near future entry open for the National Championship. Watch out for details on the class social media channels.

Overall Results:

Pos Helm Boat Name Sail No R1 R2 R3 R4 Pts

1 Kyle Stoneham V3 5247 1 1 ‑5 1 3

2 Simon Hiscock Switch 1126 ‑3 2 1 3 6

3 Alex Adams X / GBR 490 2 ‑3 2 2 6

4 Callum Wyper Exocet 48 4 ‑5 3 4 11

5 Alex Hughes Moth / GBR 0 ‑6 4 4 5 13

6 Joe Adams Greased Lightning 5011 5 6 7 (DNC) 18

7 Andrew Jarvis Exploder 5012 7 7 6 (DNC) 20

8 Andrew Friend Cinderella 5035 9 8 ‑10 6 23

9 Thomas Garner Voodoo 4505 8 ‑9 9 7 24

10 John Evans Exocet 4762 (DNC) 10 8 DNC 30

11 James Sainsbury P1 4906 (DNF) DNC DNC DNC 36

Scoping out next season's Sailjuice Winter Series

 

The Sailjuice Winter Series is going strong after 17 seasons, and last week the organisers invited a small group of sailors and stakeholders to join a roundtable discussion to scope out the future...

Last week the organisers of the Seldén SailJuice Winter Series, Simon Lovesey and Andy Rice, held a meeting with members of participating sailing clubs and classes, as well as some of the competitors. They discussed the future of the handicap racing series and the broader state of dinghy racing in the UK.

The Participation Mission

The meeting, chaired by Andy Rice and Simon Lovesey, focused on the primary goal of the SailJuice Winter Series: increasing participation. Andy noted that while the series has been running for 17 years, the post-Covid landscape has proven challenging. Events that once "maxed out" at 150 entries, such as the Oxford Blue, are now finding it harder to reach those numbers. Despite this, series is still general decline in UK open meeting participation.

Part of the success is attributed to the "Great Lakes" handicap system. By moving away from the "bandit" classes of the past through rigorous data analysis, the series has created a more level playing field where 15 or 16 different boat types can realistically compete for top spots. However, with 94 different classes taking part in last season's Series, they still had concerns about the fragmentation of the sport and the 'bottlenecks' preventing growth, such as entry fees, weather-dependent late entries, and volunteer fatigue.

One-Design or Handicap Racing or Both

A recurring theme was the tension between One-Design classes and handicap racing. Some one-design classes persist in holding summer open meetings where there are times when more people are involved in organising an event than there are competitors on the start line.

One representative from Oxford SC argued that one-design racing remains popular in the summer due to its social nature - the "same group of people meeting every month". However, he conceded that as numbers dwindle, classes must team up to make events viable. The consensus was that while handicap racing is often viewed as a compromise, for many clubs and classes it is increasingly the only sustainable model to achieve the necessary economies of scale.

The "Scottish Model" and Hybrid Regattas

Another attendee proposed adopting a 'Scottish Regatta' model to solve the participation problem. In this system, clubs run large-scale annual regattas with eight to ten different starts. Any class that brings six to eight boats receives its own start and prizes, while smaller groups are folded into fast or slow handicap fleets. This hybrid approach possibly the best of both worlds: it provides the social and competitive pull of class racing while ensuring the club has enough total participants to justify the resources.

Another participant supported this, suggesting that the focus should shift from participation to quality. By offering a better racing experience and a "blank sheet of paper" approach to handicapping, moving away from 75-year-old analogue systems into the digital and AI age, participation would naturally follow.

Social Dynamics and Modern Challenges

The "off-the-water" experience was identified as a critical factor in an event's success. A number of participants agreed that since Covid, sailors are more "time-poor" and selective. To add value, participants suggested incorporating modern technology and better hospitality. Simon Horsfield's on-and-off-the-water coaching and online briefings was mentioned as a good example of ways that the Winter Series is adding a layer of value to the amateur circuit, giving "weekend warriors" access to the kind of elite tips usually reserved for Olympic and RYA youth squads.

Where next?

The focus for the 18th edition of the SailJuice Winter Series will be building on the success of the boat type extracted rankings (fast and slow asymmetric, fast and slow symmetric) and performance comparisons of similar boat types. More broadly, small boat racing lacks a clear representative body to champion the sector - like RORC for offshore or UKWA for boards. While the RYA plays an important role, it is understandably broad in scope. SailJuice has partly filled this gap (with 94 classes represented last winter), but there's clearly more to be done. The longer-term vision is to establish a UK Small Boat Racing Association, and we'll be arranging a follow-up meeting to gauge interest and momentum.

Calling all challengers – Royal Racing Yacht Bluebottle brings Marblehead Trophy to the UK for the first time

 

The Royal Yacht Squadron in Cowes is calling for Dragon class challengers for The Marblehead Trophy 2026. The event will be held in Cowes, Isle of Wight at the Royal Yacht Squadron. The Royal Racing Yacht Bluebottle (GBR 192) won the 2025 event in St. Tropez, marking the first-ever British victory and bringing the trophy to the UK for the first time.

The regatta will follow the Edinburgh Cup (18–21 August), and a bumper month of sailing, as well as marking the 75th year of the trophy being vested in the International Dragon Class. The Marblehead Trophy is the Dragon class’s premier inter-club competition, and Bluebottle’s defence of the 2026 edition is being organised by the Royal Yacht Squadron and supported by The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust.

Commissioned in 1948 and built by renowned British shipbuilders Camper & Nicholsons, Bluebottle was originally presented as a wedding gift to Princess Elizabeth (as she then was) and Prince Philip. She is the only British Dragon to have won an Olympic medal, achieving bronze at the 1956 Melbourne Games, a testament to her timeless design and competitive pedigree.

Now meticulously restored and maintained by The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust, Bluebottle remains an active competitor on the international regatta circuit. Far from a museum piece, she embodies the living legacy of classic yacht design and continues to inspire sailors of all ages.

Skippered by Graham Bailey, with Bluebottle crew Julia Bailey, Will Bedford and Killian Boag, after five close races the team delivered a superb performance in 2025 and against a top international fleet securing the Marblehead Trophy, one of the most coveted trophies in sailing.

The Marblehead Trophy is a prestigious international sailing prize linked to the Dragon class. Established in 1929 by the residents of Marblehead in Massachusetts, it commemorated the town’s 300th anniversary and celebrated its heritage as a renowned centre of sailing.

Franck Bruyere, Chief Executive of The Royal Yacht Britannia and Fingal Hotel said: “We are delighted that Bluebottle now joins the very select circle of winners of this prestigious trophy, and we hope that this marks the beginning of a new ‘British era’ of champions. It is with great pride that we bring the trophy to Cowes and look forward to the 2026 challenger event”

Commodore Bertie Bicket of The Royal Yacht Squadron commented: “We are very proud to welcome challengers of the Marblehead Trophy to Cowes and to host this prestigious event in this very important year for Cowes as it is the 200th anniversary of Cowes Week.”

Ruffian 23 Fleet Gains UK Classic Boat Register Status

 

The Ruffian 23 class has been formally recognised as a classic vessel by the National Maritime Museum Cornwall.

The Portaferry-built yacht has been accepted onto the UK’s National Small Boat Register. The move follows an application demonstrating the class meets all eligibility criteria.

These include a length under 32 feet, local design and construction, and continued active use. Many Ruffian 23s remain regularly sailed.

“It’s nice to see a Portaferry-built boat recognised in this way,” fleet representative Billy Spence said. “The fleet is still out there proving its worth rather than gathering dust.”

As previously reported, owners in Carrickfergus have been seeking classic status for the class. The effort forms part of discussions with Marina management over rising mooring costs.

The register applies to vessels under 32 feet that are locally built and more than 50 years old. Most Ruffian 23s built before 1975 meet these requirements.

Registration is confirmed once eligibility is supported by written histories and photographic evidence.

Spence noted support from local heritage bodies recognising the class.

A final decision from Carrickfergus Marina on fee implications linked to classic status is still awaited.

Dell Quay Sailing Club taster days

 

9th May sees the first of three 'taster days' that Dell Quay are running to promote all aspects of the club. We will be showcasing the dinghy racing/cruising, why not jump onto one of our members yachts and speak to them about the passages they do throughout the year, watch the modellers racing, have a row in one of our two Celtic long boats or jump on a paddle board and kayak!

Enjoy what is arguably the best view in Chichester Harbour and learn more about what Dell Quay has to offer you - a super friendly club, quoted last year as 'a small club with a big heart' If you're interested in joining us, please do get in touch, we'd love to see you!

Sailing has always been the main activity at the Dell Quay and it will remain a key focus to the sailing club, however times are changing and like any business, you have to move with these changes and embrace those that work for you.

Dell Quay has always been pretty forward thinking and engage with our members to ensure we offer the best we can and these taster days are just another way of ensuring we have a strong membership across all demographics and activities - we very much look forward to welcoming you!

NSSA Double Handed Team Racing Championships at Yorkshire Dales Sailing Club

 

Derbyshire Blue deliver determined win at NSSA Double Handed Team Racing Championships

Question: What do you get if you mix 116 sailors in 29 teams from 15 different organisations from across the country, 24 boats, 9 RIBS, 300 lunches and over 70 volunteers in stunning scenery and sunshine for the weekend?

Answer: Competitive team racing, friendship, fun and camaraderie and a lot of smiles at the National School Sailing Association (NSSA) Double Handed Team Racing Championships which were held at Yorkshire Dales Sailing Club (YDSC) on 21 & 22 March 2026.

The event was hosted by North East & Yorkshire Youth Sailing Association (NEYYSA) and was run in Fireflys and Fevas. The fireflies were loaned by York University & Leeds University, NEYYSA is pleased to support and partner these universities in an ongoing & developing relationship. The Fevas were loaned by Ripon SC, YDSC, Windermere School & Sedbergh School. NEYYSA is grateful for the ongoing support of all regional clubs and organisations that allows these large events to run. The Feva flights used team racing sails loaned by Rutland SC and the third flight sported NEYYSA team racing jibs previously funded by the Eric Twiname Trust.

Racing got under way slightly later than intended on Saturday morning as the wind unusually failed to materialise at YDSC. Sailors made the most of the postponement by catching up with each other, eating cake (a NEYYSA standard if we're honest!), consuming the galley's entire weekend stock of hot chocolate and generally enjoying the social benefits of team racing surrounded by the fantastic Yorkshire Dales scenery which can be viewed from every angle of the club clubhouse and grounds. The team managers, parents & spectators did the same!

After racing, YDSC's galley served an evening meal for 116 people, after a short after dinner de-brief and Q&A from the young umpires from Sheffield & Newcastle Universities a round of the ever-popular disco bingo closed out the day before everyone headed to bed.

Sunday morning dawned colder than Saturday with a stronger westerly wind. Sailors who had camped overnight recounted tales of frozen tent zips and wearing clothes in bed but were soon warmed and ready for racing after bacon sandwiches from the galley. The sailors launched promptly for a 9.15am start and racing re-commenced with all to play for. Given the shortage of races on Saturday due to the wind, the SIs were amended to continue with the HLS for the rest of the day.

An event of this scale cannot happen without the vast number of volunteers prior to, during and after the event. A massive thank you to everyone who made the event happen, a particular thank you to K-Sail who again supported the event remotely with sage advice and counsel and to YDSC who stepped in at short notice to host the event after the planned venue had to withdraw. The Yorkshire welcome, friendly members and amazing catering certainly contributed to a memorable event. All volunteers were presented with a thank you gift of Yorkshire tea & biscuits and a NEYYSA mug!

Overall Results:

Firefly Gold

1 Derbyshire Blue

2 NEYYSA Natives

3 NEYYSA Nomads

Firefly Silver

1 Elton Sorcerers

2 NEYYSA Knights

3 Derbyshire Yellow

Firefly Bronze

1 LYS Sentinel

2 Worcestershire Youth Sailing Assoc

3 NEYYSA Dolphins

Feva Gold

1 Rutland Ospreys

2 RHS Orange

3 NEYYSA mINEOS

Feva Silver

1 Windermere Wonders

2 Elton Wizards

3 Otley Red Devils

Sanders Sails sponsors the Lightning 368 Dinghy Class Association

 

The Lightning 368 Dinghy Class Association is delighted to announce that Sanders Sails has become its new Title Sponsor, marking an exciting new chapter for the class and its growing community of sailors.

This partnership brings together one of the UK’s most respected sailmakers with a dynamic and passionate dinghy class, known for its competitive racing, accessibility, and strong camaraderie.

As Title Sponsor, Sanders Sails will play a key role in supporting class events, National Championships, and ongoing development initiatives aimed at increasing participation and raising the profile of the Lightning 368.

Sanders Sails, with a long-standing reputation for craftsmanship, innovation, and performance, is ideally positioned to support the class both on and off the water. Their expertise in sail design and commitment to excellence aligns closely with the values of the Lightning 368 fleet.

Simon Hopkins, Chair of the Lightning 368 Dinghy Class Association said: "We are thrilled to welcome Sanders Sails as our Title Sponsor. Their reputation within the sailing community is second to none, and their support will help us grow the class, enhance our events, and provide even more opportunities for sailors of all levels."

Chris Sanders from Sanders Sails also expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: "We are proud to support the Lightning 368 class. It’s a fantastic fleet with a strong future, and we look forward to working closely with the association and its members to promote competitive, enjoyable sailing."

This year marks our 50th anniversary as a family-run, multi-award-winning British sailmaking loft, and we remain incredibly proud that all of our sails are designed and manufactured here in the UK. Our loft is based in Lymington on the Solent, just five minutes from John Claridge Boats, which creates a wonderful opportunity for us to work closely alongside the class builder as the Lightning 368 continues to evolve and develop.

The sponsorship will see Sanders Sails’ branding featured prominently across class communications, events, and regattas throughout the season. Additional initiatives, including technical support, sail development input, and sailor engagement activities, are expected to be introduced as the partnership develops.

This collaboration underscores a shared commitment to fostering grassroots sailing while maintaining high standards of competition and sportsmanship.

Choosing Skippered or Bareboat Charter ?

 

When you rent a sailing yacht, choosing skippered or bareboat (bareback) charter changes the whole experience. Each has its own advantages depending on your skill level, confidence, and what kind of trip you want.

⚓ Skippered Yacht Charter (with a captain)

A skippered charter means a professional captain comes with the yacht and handles sailing.

✅ Key Benefits

No experience needed

You don’t need sailing qualifications—perfect for beginners.

Stress-free sailing

The skipper handles navigation, docking, weather decisions, and safety.

Local expertise

Skippers often know hidden bays, quiet anchorages, and the best restaurants.

More relaxation time

You can fully enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and socialising instead of managing the boat.

Learning opportunity

If you’re interested, many skippers are happy to teach you the basics of sailing.

Safer in tricky conditions

Especially useful in unfamiliar waters or areas with strong winds/currents.

⚠️ Downsides to consider

Less privacy (you’re sharing space with the skipper)

Slightly higher cost (skipper fees + food/space)

A bareboat charter means you rent the yacht and sail it yourself.

✅ Key Benefits

Complete freedom & control

You decide where to go, when to sail, and how long to stay.

Total privacy

No crew onboard—just you and your group.

More authentic sailing experience

Ideal if you enjoy being in charge and handling the yacht.

Often cheaper overall

No skipper fees (though you may need certification).

Flexible pace

Stay longer in places you love without consulting anyone.

⚠️ Downsides to consider

Requires experience/licence

Most companies require proof of sailing competence.

Full responsibility

Navigation, safety, weather decisions, and docking are all on you.

Less local knowledge

You’ll need to research routes, anchorages, and hazards yourself.

🧭 Which One Should You Choose?

Choose skippered if you:

Are new to sailing

Want a relaxed, holiday-style trip

Prefer guidance and local knowledge

Choose bareboat if you:

Have sailing experience/certification

Want independence and privacy

Enjoy the challenge of sailing yourself

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Cowes Classics Regatta 2026 - Entries Open and NoR Published

 

Cowes Classics Regatta, the flagship event of the Royal London Yacht Club in Cowes, in conjunction with the Royal Thames Yacht Club, is delighted to announce that entries have opened, and the Notice of Race has been published on the dedicated regatta website.

The regatta has a four day format for 2026 with racing from Thursday 4th through to Sunday 7th of June.

On the water, the majority of the racing will be run from committee vessels across a number of race course areas, with the option to still use the club's shoreside starting line if required. The two clubs have been working with the various classes to ensure that they are given the type of racing they individually prefer, be that windward/leeward or laid mark courses around the Solent. The regatta will be run in a Corinthian spirit but is aiming to offer some great racing across the Solent, balanced with a varied social programme.

The Royal London Yacht Club, now also the Royal Thames shoreside base, is in the heart of Cowes Parade and will be hosting a series of regatta events.

Now in its sixth year, Sunday will once again be a spectacle on the Parade for 'Cowes Classics Day' with classic cars on show, whilst on the water, moored at Trinity Landing, will be a selection of classic yachts. 'Cowes Classics Day' has become somewhat of an institution in Cowes, and this year promises something for all.

The Notice of race, entry forms and booking sheets for all the planned events and dinners are available online at www.cowesclassicsregatta.org

Free Entry Available for the Solent Super Series 2026

 

Registration for the 2026 Solent Super Series has officially opened and the Notice of Race is available online. 

The Solent Super Series begins on Saturday, 10th October, with 4 Rounds of exciting coastal-style, round-the-cans racing.  Stopping off in a Host Port each Saturday, our evening social brings together all competitors to analyse the tracking and compare tactics over a few drinks and dinner, with the prize draw also taking place.  Sunday’s race brings the fleet back to the central Solent.

NEW for 2026

Teams registered before 1st June 2026 will be entered into our Entry Fee prize draw, with a chance to win your entry fee back and race for FREE thanks to our partners Musto. 

KEY INFO

– Different Solent Location Each Round

– IRC TCC from 0.990 – 1.060

– Maximum 4 Crew

– 3 Races Per Weekend

– Alternating Weekends

– £750 Entry Fee 

Inc. Berthing, Race Tracking, Welcome Drinks,  Prize Draws, Professional Photography, Team Welcome Pack

 

DATES

Round 1 - 10th/11th October - Cowes

Round 2 - 24th/25th October - TBC

Round 3 - 7th/8th November - TBC

Round 4 - 21st/22nd November - TBC

As a rule Round 2 will always coincide with the changing of the clocks

Ullswater Yacht Club Welcomes 2026 - Fresh Season

 

As the first signs of spring return to the Lake District, Ullswater Yacht Club prepares to reopen its clubhouse on 28 March — marking the start of a new sailing season that blends renewal on the water with a deep respect for the club's heritage.

Following a productive winter ashore, members returning this weekend will notice a series of thoughtful enhancements to the clubhouse. Chief among them is a new history board, charting the club's journey since its founding in 1958, alongside honours boards celebrating the long lineage of winners of the Lord Birkett Memorial Trophy. Together, they offer a timely reminder that while each season brings something new, the foundations of the club remain firmly rooted in decades of shared endeavour.

The newly named Norman Birkett Bar further reinforces that connection. Paying tribute to Lord Birkett's pivotal role in preserving Ullswater for recreational use, it is a fitting focal point as members gather once again — whether fresh from racing or simply enjoying the lakeside setting.

A Season Begins — On and Off the Water

The reopening weekend immediately signals a return to action, with the traditional Spring Noggin on Sunday 29 March marking the first racing of the season.

Beyond that, there is plenty for Ullswater Yacht Club members to get stuck into, with a full programme of racing and social activity running throughout the spring and summer. Regular fixtures such as Twilight Sailing and the ever-popular POETS series return alongside early-season highlights including the Easter Trophy and Tom Ball Series.

For those interested in getting involved, further information on becoming a member can be found at ullswateryachtclub.org

Magic Marine Daffodil Regatta (25-26 April)

The first major open event of the season, the Magic Marine Daffodil Regatta returns on 25-26 April, bringing together competitive racing with a lively, welcoming atmosphere both on and off the water.

A long-standing highlight of the spring calendar, the regatta continues to attract strong home and visiting fleets, with early entries already indicating another well-supported edition.

64th Lord Birkett Memorial Trophy (4-5 July)

Momentum is already building rapidly for the 64th Lord Birkett Memorial Trophy, taking place on 4-5 July, with entries significantly ahead of previous years following its recognition as Event of the Year at the Royal Yachting Association Awards.

Interest in both the event and Ullswater Yacht Club has surged, with over 120 entries already confirmed by mid-March — more than double the number at the same point in 2025. Demand across on-site accommodation, including motorhomes and camping, is also notably higher.

"I would strongly encourage anyone planning to take part to get booked in now," said General Manager Jack Allan. "Following the national recognition, interest has skyrocketed. We are already seeing entries come in far earlier than in previous years, and it's shaping up to be one of the most in-demand editions yet. If you're intending to race, now is the time to secure your place."

Ballyholme Yacht Club sailors gear up for Irish Sailing Youth Nationals

 

EXCITEMENT is building at Ballyholme Yacht Club as a strong group of sailors prepare to compete in the Irish Youth Nationals, taking place on home waters from April 9-12.

Representing the club, are Alex and James Eadie, Sally Nixon, Jessica Dadley Young, Cormac Byrne and Caroline Byrne, all looking forward to showcasing their progress at one of the key events in the youth sailing calendar.

Alex and James have recently stepped up into the ILCA 4 class after progressing through the Topper fleet.

Alex’s achievements include finishing first girl at the Topper Youth Nationals and being named first girl Topper Ireland, while James secured second youth boy at both the Southerns and Northerns.

The twins also gained valuable international experience competing in the gold fleet at the Topper World Championships.

Since moving into the ILCA 4, both have been training with Northern Ireland Sailing Team coach Chris Penney and sailing coach Roger Craig, focusing on race strategy and tactical awareness. Both are aiming for top 10 finishes at the Nationals.

In the RS Feva class, Sally and Jessica are targeting a podium finish in their final year together in the fleet.

The pair have continued their development through the Northern Ireland Sailing Team, achieving third overall at the John Minnis Youth Championships and second at the RS Feva Nationals Grand Prix at Ballyholme in 2024.

They are also preparing for the RS Feva World Championships in Travemünde, Germany, later this year, where they will represent Ireland.

Cormac will compete in the ILCA 6 class after a busy year racing internationally, including at the Europa Cup in Germany, where he competed in a fleet of 140 sailors and qualified for gold fleet.

Balancing sailing with his A-Level studies, he continues to gain experience racing against adult competitors.

Reflecting on the upcoming event, Cormac commented: “Thank you to Irish Sailing, Ballyholme Yacht Club, Ards and North Down Borough Council, all the sponsors and volunteers who are here to help make this event happen.”

“Having home support and opportunities like this on our doorstep makes a massive difference and enables us to continue developing and competing at this level, bringing the competition home.”

Caroline, sailing in the Topper class and a member of both the Irish Sailing squad and Northern Ireland Sailing Team, has also recorded strong results, including first girl at the John Minnis NI Youth Championships and first junior female at the Topper Northern Championships 2025.

Ballyholme Yacht Club is proud to be represented across multiple fleets and looks forward to welcoming sailors from across the country for what promises to be a highly competitive regatta.

The club extends its best wishes to all competitors and thanks all sponsors and partners supporting the event.

Fireflys at the Ovington Inland Championships at Grafham Water Sailing Club

 

Firefly racing is so much more than sitting in a boat, sailing round a track for a few races and then going home. It's about a break from normality, catching up with old friends, tinkering with your boat, doing some exercise and generally having fun. For 80- years the Firefly has been the boat of choice for so many. This year we're raffling off a nearly new Ovington special.. 

The sailing this weekend was tricky, but the race officer did a great job of getting 2 races in, despite the fickle wind being from every direction.

In the first race Emily and I got off to a cracking start and managed to sneak around the windward mark just ahead of Jono Pank and Rachel Crebbin. As the wind died to nothing on the run, I was cross with myself for letting Jono get to the right, which was where I thought the wind, if it came, might come from. And so it proved, Jono ghosting past us just before the finish.

Race 2 was really tricky as the wind shifted just before the start, meaning it was a reach/run to the first mark. So many race officers would have scrapped the race much to my annoyance. Light fickle wind sailing is hard and sometimes there is an element of luck. Off the start we found ourselves covered from behind which forced a change of strategy. We decided to sail out to the left hand side of the course, taking a few transoms on the way. We then caught the zephyr we needed to bear off and cross back in front of the fleet. This was a lead that we managed to extend for the rest of the race.

Meanwhile that first leg for the other 8 Fireflys was really hard as they got swallowed up by the K1 and OK fleet. How Jono managed to get round the pile up at the first mark I will never know, but he did and held on for 2nd at the finish leaving us tied on points. With the forecasted dropping we retired to the bar and had a brilliant night of catching up!

Sunday dawned with a light breeze which sadly dissipated by the eventual start time. After a short postponement, racing was finally abandoned and we had an early prize-giving.

Massive thank you to Emily for crewing, Jason for putting me up, Sebi for driving from Plymouth finishing 3rd and making us all laugh. The race officer for making it happen, Grafham Water Sailing Club volunteers, all the competitors from all the fleets and Nathan from Ovington's for organising and bringing us all together - thank you!

The 80th anniversary raffle

To celebrate the 80th anniversary the class is holding a raffle for a nearly brand new Ovington Firefly in full race spec! To get hold of a raffle ticket you need to sail a Firefly in your club races or at a Firefly event. The more you sail, the more tickets you get... I think! 

Overall Results:

Pos Sail No Helm Crew Club R1 R2 Pts

1st 2937 Chris Kameen Emily Bretterton Imperial Poona Sailing Club 2 1 3

2nd 2025 Jono Pank Rachel Crebbin IPYC 1 2 3

3rd 4500 Sebi Schmidt Georgia Evans Saundersfoot Sailing Club 4 3 7

4th 2065 Jason Aldous Josephine Mason Papercourt 3 6 9

5th 4220 Charlie Merryweather Kelsey Leet CUCrC 6 4 10

6th 2026 Jenny Smallwood Philip Aldhous West Oxfordshire SC 5 5 10

7th 5 Ben Dickinson Lily Butler CUCrC 7 7 14

8th 4 Will Bailey Emma Claridge CUCrC 8 8 16

9th 2 Ben Coast Luke Wallis CUCrC DNC DNC 20