New WASZP Speed Record set at 31.0 knots

 Teenage British sailor Toby Smith pushed the limits to clock an incredible 31.0 knots, setting a new WASZP class speed record.

His record-breaking run took place over a blustery weekend at Datchet Water during the UK Start of Season Championships, where conditions delivered the perfect window for speed.

Racing out of the Royal Hospital School Sailing Academy in Suffolk, Toby is part of a strong junior U18 pathway showing how far the WASZP class has spread across the UK youth sailing scene.

There are moments in sailing that are planned to perfection . . . and then there are moments that simply appear. For Toby Smith, the new WASZP speed record didn’t come from a carefully orchestrated attempt. It came just after the finish line.

“I’d just crossed after a race,” he recalls. “I looked behind me and saw this huge gust rolling down the course. And I thought… this might be the moment.”

What followed was instinct, commitment, and a willingness to push beyond comfort.

“I threw in a jibe-there must have been about 35 knots of breeze-set the boat up quickly, put my shoulders out, shut my eyes… and just went for it.”

Seconds later, Smith had rewritten the WASZP record books: 31.0 knots.

SORA Coastal race at Pwllheli Sailing Club

 

Last weekend presented champagne sailing for Pwllheli boats, however early light conditions on Saturday morning prompted the race management to shorten the course of the clubs's ISORA coastal race to ensure everyone got a finish.

Conditions were light on the start line with many hugging the line. Mark Thompson's J97 Jac y Do got the best start with Geoff Dutton-Kelly's Beneteau 40.7 Crackerjack pushed over by Paul & Sam Kitteringham's Elan 350 Finally.

Andrew & Sam Hall's Lombard 46, Pata Negra soon got ahead to round 'Sponsorship available Mark 2' at the west end of the beach and headed east to 'Sponsorship available Mark 10'. Nigel Ingram's XP 33, Darling xx rounded next together with both Finally and Jac y Do and all kites were launched giving a colourful view from ashore.

With wind filling in, Pata Negra quickly pulled ahead from the fleet followed by Darling xx but spinnakers on both Paul Sutton's Farr X2, Lightening and Robert Temple and Matthew Harrison's X40 Sport, Excession allowed them to regain ground lost on the upwind leg. Lightening enjoyed the downwind leg to round 'Sponsorship available Mark 10' off Abererch beach, with Darling xx.

Next to round was Excession getting ahead of Finally and holding them in dirty air, forcing them to eventually foot off.

With Crackerjack now back with the fleet after getting left behind at the start, they headed round the Carreg y Trai buoy and into St Tudwall sound. Wind shadows in the sound forced the wind forward, delaying some hoists. With Pata Negra well on the way back to the finish. Darling, Excession and Finally were in the next pack.

Behind them, Lightening hoisted their code zero while Jac y Do stuck with kite but as wind built and swung forward they struggled to keep on course without a couple of broaches allowing Crackerjack to get ever closer.

Pata Negra took line honours and 1st overall on corrected. Next to finish was Darling who took 2nd overall on corrected, 1st in class 2. Jac y Do were 3rd overall on corrected and 2nd in class 2. Class 1 was won by Finally with Excession just 2minutes behind.

Sunday presented more challenging conditions with glorious sunshine and flat seas. For many, this was too much of a challenge but it attracted Stephen Tudor & Mark Thompson's J70 Sgrech Bach out to enjoy the weather.

Realising that the lack of wind may become an issue, a course was set taking advantage of the tide and using the zephyrs in the bay which gave spectators a close up of the boats. Paul & Sam Kitteringham's Finally took line honours but Sgrech Bach won the race on corrected.

Next racing is on the 2nd to the 4th May with a coastal race Saturday and round the cans racing Sunday and Monday for the May bank holiday series. All results and information is on the club website pwllhelisailingclub.co.uk

All boats are welcome. Everyone can view the racing from Gimblet Rock.

Pwllheli SC is looking for sponsorship for their ten racing marks. If interested please contact racing@PwllheliSailingClub.co.uk to find out more.

Blackwater Sailing Club in Maldon to hold open day

 

BLACKWATER Sailing Club is holding an open day for visitors to discover sailing and explore the club's facilities. The open day will take place from 2pm to 6pm on Saturday, May 9 at Heybridge Basin in Maldon.

Visitors of all ages and abilities can try free, hands-on sailing experiences.

Joe Bird, rear commodore of Blackwater Sailing Club, said: "Our open day is a highlight of the year and a wonderful chance to introduce new people to sailing in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

Visitors will be able to take part in taster sailing sessions on the club’s training lake with guidance from experienced instructors.

The club will also share information on its Royal Yachting Association (RYA) courses and membership options.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to watch a club race and learn about the format, rules and tactics from experienced members.

No prior experience is necessary, and all safety equipment will be provided.

Attendees are advised to wear warm, comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities.

ake and refreshments will be available throughout the afternoon.

The event is free to attend, with free parking provided.

For more information about the open day or membership, contact membership-secretary@blackwatersailingclub.org.uk or visit blackwatersailingclub.org.uk.

Solo Open at Burwain Sailing Club

 

Ten Solos turned up to Burwain on a bright sunny day. The winds were light and variable from the NW which built and switched around as the clouds passed by.

The small but competitive fleet got away first time from the tight start line. Closely packed at the first mark led by Martin Honnor from Ogston SC. There were regular place changes behind but Honnor fought off all challenges to take first place followed by Andy Carter and Steve Denison.

Competitors enjoyed a bolognaise pasta lunch and cake.

The second race started, finding Andy Carter over the line and having to restart. Places changed often in the testy conditions, Carter returning to the battlefield at the front quite quickly and sailing well to win from Denison 2nd and Honnor 3rd. Competition down the fleet also intense with locals Innes Armstrong and Stephen Graham pushing to be leading home boat. Also Budworth sailors Ted Garner and Graham Ellis finishing close. No one wanted to be last!

The 3rd race followed on back to back. Stephen Graham won the pin end continuing on starboard towards the lay line along with Honnor. A fortunate header at just the right time for them seeing them tack to cross the rest towards the first mark. Honnor with better boat speed took the lead but a little local knowledge so Graham past him to round first. Honnor now in 2nd knew he just needed to hold Carter off to take the event. Graham managed to retain his lead to win, Ed Grey from Royal Windermere pushing hard for a good 3rd place with Honnor 2nd and winning the event.

The battle at the tail end so Justine Davenport and a good final race in 7th putting her ahead of Stephen Restak from Delph. Graham's race win giving him 3rd overall from Carter 2nd overall.

It was a jolly crowd in the bar afterwards. Martin Honnor gave a speech of thanks to the organisers.

Overall Results:

Pos Sail No Helm Club R1 R2 R3 Pts

1 5880 MARTIN HONNOR OGSTON 1 3 2 3

2 5807 ANDY CARTER LLSC & WKSC 2 1 4 3

3 4286 STEPHEN GRAHAM BURWAIN 5 4 1 5

4 6126 STOVE DENISON RYA 3 2 5 5

5 5813 INNES ARMSTRONG BURWAIN 4 5 RTD 9

6 5449 REY ROYAL W. 8 7 3 10

7 6107 TED GARVER BUDWORTH 6 9 6 12

8 5654 GRAHAM ELLIS BUDWORTH 7 6 8 13

9 4715 JUSTINE DAVENPORT BURWAIN 10 10 7 17

10 6073 STEPHEN RESTAK DELPH 9 8 9 17

HD Sails Phantom South East Series Open at Chichester Yacht Club

 

On Saturday the 18th April the third event of the Phantom South East series took place at Chichester Yacht Club It was a glorious day with bright sunshine and a north westerly breeze. The plan was for three races back to back with the Phantoms starting first followed by the Hadron H2s.

Six visitors sailed from three clubs and the racing was tight throughout the day. With a rectangular course crossing the Birdham Deeps, we had good racing with interplay and places changing.

Race 1 saw Jeremy Deacon lead with Andrew Stainsby and Andy Smith battling it out for second, Andy eventually pulling away with Dave Patrick pulling through as well and the leading thee pulled out a lead that caught the Hadrons following us. Justin Philipps led the 2nd group of 3 to finish 4th ahead of Andrew Stainsby and Hilgard Muller.

Race 2 saw a closer race with Jeremy Deacon and Andy Smith battling it out closely followed by Dave Patrick, Hilgard Muller and Andrew Stainsby jostling all the way around. The final results had Jeremy Deacon winning followed by Andy Smith and Dave Patrick, with Hilgard Muller, Justin Philipps and Andrew Stainsby following through the line.

Race 3 had all to play for between Dave Patrick and Andy Smith for 2nd, only a win would matter for Dave Patrick and he duly delivered one beating Jeremy Deacon and Hilgard Muller over the line with Andy Smith, Andrew Stainsby and Justin Philipps following through the finish line.

A big thank you to Chichester YC for a great day's sailing, a great venue.

Overall Results:

Pos Sail No Helm Club R1 R2 R3 Pts

1st 1423 Jeremy Deacon Broadwater SC 1 1 ‑2 2

2nd 1416 Dave Patrick Broadwater SC ‑3 3 1 4

3rd 1405 Andy Smith Hollingworth Lake SC 2 2 ‑4 4

4th 1392 Hilgard Muller Broadwater SC ‑6 4 3 7

5th 1415 Justin Philipps Frensham Pond SC 4 5 ‑6 9

6th 1353 Andrew Stainsby Frensham Pond SC 5 ‑6 5 10

Solo Eastern Area Open at Rollesby Broad Sailing Club

 

Sixteen competitors faced a day of unpredictable, often testing conditions at the Eastern Area Solo Open hosted by Rollesby Broad Sailing Club on Saturday. With six visiting sailors joining the ten strong home fleet, the racing quickly proved both close and tactical.

Local knowledge helped in moments, but it was the visitors who consistently occupied the sharp end of the results. Positions changed constantly throughout the day, and several tie breaks were ultimately needed to separate the overall standings.

The overall winner was Jasper Barnham, representing Snettisham Beach. Godfrey Clark from Fishers Green was second overall. Chris Bunn completed the top three in third overall, representing Lady Yacht Club. The visitors rounded out the top six and first Rollesby Solo was Robert Hawkings, who finished seventh overall.

Overall Results:

Pos Sail No Helm Club R1 R2 R3 R4 Pts

1st 5887 Jasper Barnham Snettisham Beach 1 ‑4 2 1 4

2nd 4801 Godfrey Clark Fishers Green 2 1 1 ‑8 4

3rd 6138 Chris Bunn LYC 3 2 ‑7 7 12

4th 5953 Martin Brooking Hunts SC ‑6 6 4 3 13

5th 5838 Bryan Morum Hickling SC ‑10 8 5 2 15

6th 4761 Alan Wright SESCA 5 5 ‑8 5 15

7th 5472 Robert Hawkings RBSC 4 ‑7 6 6 16

8th 4842 Kevin Edwards RBSC 7 ‑9 9 4 20

9th 3175 Daniel Bull RBSC 8 3 ‑10 10 21

10th 5443 John Saddington RBSC ‑11 11 3 9 23

11th 5259 Glen Barker RBSC 12 10 ‑14 11 33

12th 5336 Robert Black RBSC ‑13 12 12.5 12 36.5

13th 5232 Roger Wilson RBSC 9 13 (DNF) DNS 39

14th 4180 Phil Alison RBSC 14 14 ‑15 13 41

15th 3534 Steve Lee RBSC 15 (OCS) 12.5 14 41.5

16th 4864 Phil Atherton RBSC (DNF) 15 11 DNS 43

Upcoming Open Day at Attenborough Sailing Club

 

Attenborough Sailing Club continues to offer local residents the opportunity to enjoy sailing in the scenic surroundings of Attenborough Nature Reserve. The club sails on Coneries Lagoon, the lake located to the right as visitors drive toward the Attenborough Nature Reserve Centre car park.

Known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, the club attracts members from across the local area who share a love of being on the water. New members are encouraged to get involved and are warmly welcomed into the community.

In recent years, the club has developed a modern clubhouse featuring a fully equipped clubroom, changing facilities and disabled access. A viewing balcony overlooking the Nature Reserve allows members and visitors to enjoy the wildlife and sailing activity taking place on the lagoon.

Many members first learn to sail through the club’s Royal Yachting Association (RYA) training courses, which run throughout the year. Others join after learning while on holiday and wish to build on their experience closer to home. The club also welcomes people who simply enjoy spending time around boats and the water.

Members of all ages take part in a variety of activities including racing, cruising and social events. Regular club racing takes place on Sundays and Wednesday evenings, while youth events are organised throughout the year. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, Friday afternoon and evening cruising and social gatherings are becoming increasingly popular.

Sailing at the club is accessible to people from all backgrounds. Individual membership costs £130 per year, with significant discounts available for families, students and young people. New members can initially use club boats before deciding whether to purchase their own, with pre-owned boats often available within the club for just a few hundred pounds.

The club’s annual Open Day regularly attracts more than 300 visitors. This year, the event will take place on Saturday 9 May from 10:30am to 4:00pm, when members of the local community are invited to “come and have a go”.

Visitors are encouraged to bring a pair of soft shoes that can get wet and enjoy a free boat ride with an experienced sailor. Alternatively, guests can relax on the clubhouse balcony with tea, coffee, ice cream, cake or a drink while watching the activities.

More information can be found on the club’s Facebook group, Attenborough Sailing Club, or on its website at www.attenboroughsc.org.uk.

Sea Racing Returns to the Enterprise Northern Series at Tynemouth Sailing Club

 

The 2026 Northern Series for the iconic Enterprise dinghy continues later this month as the fleet heads to the coast for the second event of the season at Tynemouth Sailing Club on 25-26 April.

Following the opening event at Scammonden Water Sailing Club, the series moves from inland waters to the dynamic sea conditions of the North Sea for what promises to be an exciting weekend of racing.

The event offers competitors a valuable opportunity to experience sea sailing conditions ahead of the upcoming Enterprise National Championships 2026, which will take place just across the River Tyne at South Shields Sailing Club from 23-26 May. With the Nationals on the horizon, the Tynemouth weekend is expected to attract a strong fleet looking to fine-tune their performance and gain valuable coastal racing experience.

Sailing from Priors Haven at the mouth of the River Tyne, Tynemouth offers a spectacular venue combining open sea racing, shifting tidal influences and the potential for exhilarating planing conditions. The club has a long tradition of hosting visiting fleets and delivering competitive yet welcoming events, making it an ideal stop on this year's Northern Series circuit.

The Northern Series itself forms part of the 70th anniversary celebrations for the Enterprise class, bringing together sailors from across the UK to enjoy close racing, friendly competition and the renowned social atmosphere the fleet is known for.

Entries for the Tynemouth event are now open, with an early bird entry discount currently available for a limited time. Competitors are encouraged to sign up early to secure the reduced rate and guarantee their place on the start line.

With strong racing expected, a warm welcome from the host club and the promise of classic North Sea sailing conditions, the Tynemouth event is shaping up to be a key highlight in the run-up to this year's National Championship.

Whether you are chasing Northern Series points, preparing for the Nationals, or simply keen to enjoy competitive sea sailing with the Enterprise fleet, Tynemouth promises a weekend not to miss. Prizes on offer from series sponsors Peak Dinghies, Allen and North Sails.

Entries now open for Craftinsure Wayfarer Nationals

 The Wayfarer Class National Championships for the past four years have been windy events - at Arun in 2022, Dabchicks in 2023, Brixham in 2024 and last year at Shoreham.

For 2026, the National Championship is going to be hosted by Grafham Water Sailing Club over three days from Friday 26th to Sunday 28th June.

The expectation is for less challenging conditions; although wind strength is never a given, the absence of waves and tides can be guaranteed!

With generous support from Craftinsure, our title sponsor, we are offering discounted entry fees for entries made by 31st May.

Early entrants will also be able to buy event polo shirts at a considerable discount.

We are also making available a two-day entry, covering the Saturday and Sunday, for those unable to get away on the Friday.

The race schedule has been designed so that, provided we complete the full schedule of races, those competing on just two days can compete for overall honours.

Grafham Water offers on-site camping and campervan facilities and all-day catering.

The Wayfarer Class has a number of very active fleets around the country, but has recently struggled to persuade many of these club sailors to travel to championships.

The intention is to broaden the appeal of its National Championship this year to encourage a larger turnout, and so that it becomes an annual gathering of racing Wayfarer sailors.

Grafham is within a reasonable distance from many of these active club fleets.

There will be a 'buddy' system to pair less experienced sailors with more experienced ones.

There will be 'Silver' and 'Bronze' fleets established, so everyone has something to aim for.

Entry to these Championships is now open.

More details, including the Notice of Race, can be found on the UK Wayfarer Association website here.

Cyprus is a Mediterranean paradise offering stunning beaches, rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine, making it a must-visit destination.

 

Here’s a well-balanced 7-day sailing itinerary around Cyprus that mixes short scenic sails, swim stops, and genuinely worthwhile onshore activities. It’s based on real charter routes but enhanced with more interesting land experiences so it doesn’t feel like just hopping marinas.

⛵ 7-Day Cyprus Sailing Itinerary (culture + nature + relaxed sailing)

Overview

Start/finish: Larnaca

Style: Easy coastal sailing (10–30 NM per day)

Best for: Mixed crews (relaxation + exploration)

Cyprus is ideal because distances are short and anchorages are frequent, making it a relaxed sailing destination.

Day 1 – Larnaca → Ayia Napa (Cape Greco)

Sailing: ~20 NM (easy start)

Onshore highlights:

Swim/snorkel at Konnos Bay

Explore Cape Greco National Forest Park (sea caves + cliff views)

Sunset at Nissi Beach

💡 Great first day: short sail, crystal-clear water, dramatic coastline.

Day 2 – Ayia Napa → Protaras

Sailing: ~5–10 NM (very relaxed)

Onshore highlights:

Beach time at Fig Tree Bay

Walk up to Profitis Elias Church (panoramic views)

Paddleboarding or snorkeling

💡 Low sailing time = more water sports and downtime.

Day 3 – Protaras → Famagusta Bay

Sailing: ~15–20 NM

Onshore highlights:

Explore ruins of Salamis (Roman baths, amphitheatre)

Wander Famagusta old town walls

💡 One of the most historically rich days of the trip.

Day 4 – Famagusta → Kyrenia (North Coast)

Sailing: ~30 NM (longer but scenic)

Onshore highlights:

Harbour stroll in Kyrenia

Visit Kyrenia Castle (shipwreck museum)

Dinner by the Venetian harbour

💡 Arguably the prettiest harbour in Cyprus.

Day 5 – Kyrenia → Morphou Bay

Sailing: ~25 NM

Onshore highlights:

Visit ruins of Soli

Quiet anchorage, swimming, paddleboarding

💡 A “nature reset” day — far less touristy.

Day 6 – Morphou Bay → Paphos

Sailing: ~35–45 NM (longest leg – start early)

Onshore highlights:

Explore Paphos Archaeological Park

Sunset at Paphos Castle

Optional: visit Tombs of the Kings

💡 Big cultural payoff after a longer sail.

Day 7 – Paphos → Larnaca (via Limassol stop)

Sailing: ~45–60 NM (or split with stop)

Optional stop:

Limassol

Old town wander

Visit Kourion Archaeological Park

Return to Larnaca Marina

Final dinner on the promenade

💡 Flexible final day depending on pace and weather.

⚓ Alternative (Shorter / Easier Route)

If you want minimal long passages, stick to the south & east coast loop:

Larnaca → Ayia Napa → Protaras → Zygi → Limassol → back

This keeps legs shorter and avoids exposed west coast sailing.

🧭 Practical tips (important)

Best time: May–June & Sept–Oct (warm water, manageable winds)

Wind pattern: Light mornings, stronger afternoon sea breeze (typical Med sailing)

Navigation note: Northern Cyprus has political/entry considerations—check charter rules

Daily rhythm: 3–5 hours sailing + afternoons ashore = ideal balance

👍 Why this itinerary works

Mixes beaches, ruins, and local towns (not just marinas)

Alternates longer sails with easy days

Covers both lively and quiet areas

Includes UNESCO sites + hidden bays

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Title Sponsor secured for 50th Anniversary Sonata Nationals

 

The National Sonata Class Association is delighted to announce Goodall Roofing as the official Title Sponsor of the 2026 Sonata National Championships, taking place from 16th to 19th August 2026.

In the Sonata's 50th Anniversary Year, the National Championship will be hosted by the Royal Southern Yacht Club on the Hamble, bringing together top Sonata sailors from across the UK and Ireland for four days of competitive racing, camaraderie, and celebration of the iconic one-design class.

As Title Sponsor, Goodall Roofing, an award-winning, Isle of Wight-based roofing specialist, will support the event both on and off the water. Passionate Sonata supporter and owner Luke Goodall commented, "The One Design element of the Hunter Sonata is the thing that keeps the racing super close and exciting. As a company with strong ties to the community and a passion for supporting British sporting excellence, Goodall Roofing is proud to support the Sonata in its 50th Anniversary year. We had a great time supporting the 2021 Nationals in Cowes, and I look forward to competing against many other teams from around the country back on the Solent." Goodall continued, "As the roofing specialist for English Heritage in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, racing in front of an iconic building like Osbourne House will bring work and pleasure under one roof."

Sonata Class Association Chairman Alistair Bolton commented, "We are thrilled to welcome Goodall Roofing back as our Title Sponsor for the 2026 Nationals. Their commitment to the Sonata Class Association truly helps us to deliver a great Championship, and we look forward to racing around their very own racing mark that is out in the Solent."

From the 16th - 19th August, Teams will compete for the coveted Pimms Trophy and Sonata National Champion title. Reigning National Champion Joe Cross, [Having just retained his Endeavour Keelboat Trophy crown representing the Sonata.] will return with his Duette Team. Set to challenge Duette, multiple (19) times National Champion Steve Goacher with his 'Eric the Boat' Team and 2021 Nationals winner Max Richardson on board 'Little Scarlet' will no doubt mount a strong challenge.

"Team Duette are looking forward to defending our Title at the 50th Anniversary Nationals, along with one of my crew who can boast competing in the fourth Nationals back in 1980." Commented Joe Cross "Serial Champion Steve Goacher will be gunning to regain the title, along with multiple top teams from across the country, so it looks set to be a hotly contested championship! There are strong local fleets in the Solent, Poole and Weymouth, which could deliver a bumper turnout. Hopefully, the 50 boat target will be achieved, it would be great to see so many Sonatas on the start line!"

Racing in the Solent teams will have to battle the strong currents and localised weather patterns that make the Solent a unique racing venue for the event. The 2026 Goodall Roofing Sonata National Championship promises an exciting programme of competitive fleet racing, social events, and opportunities for sailors of all experience levels to connect. Entry details, information and Notice of Race can be found at www.sonata.org.uk

The Sonata Association is also providing three free entries and a small bursary to Under 25 youth teams (One member of the crew may be over 25). To enter the competition, a short video submission is required - Closing date for the competition is 1st May 2026 - for more information, head to www.sonata.org.uk

Windsong takes off for 2026 at Overy Staithe Sailing Club this weekend

 

This weekend the Windsong class will be racing in the glorious surroundings of Overy Staithe, the home of the designer John Owles and where the first boat was built.

The fleet will come together to race on the morning tide, ahead of the class going 'on tour' around the UK over the next few months. Will they be coming to a club near you?

On Saturday evening the class will have a social event, the first of the 2026. It promises to be an action packed season for this beautiful boat and its supporters.

Belfast Lough to come alive as GP14 World Championship 2026 set to arrive in Northern Ireland

Belfast Lough is set to come alive with over 100 boats from across the world as the spectacular GP14 World Championships sail into Northern Ireland in August 2026 - promising a week-long celebration of world-class racing, coastal energy and true regatta spirit.

Hosted by the Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club, and supported by Ards and North Down Borough Council, the championship will take place from 8th to 14th August 2026, welcoming elite sailors, families and supporters from across the globe to one of the UK and Ireland's most iconic sailing waters.

 

Such is the demand for the event, entries sold out in record time, with a waiting list now in place - a clear reflection of both the global popularity of the GP14 class and the appeal of Belfast Lough as a premier sailing destination. Competitors will range in age from just 14 to over 80 years old, showcasing the unique inclusivity and lifelong appeal of the sport.

From colourful sails lining the horizon to the buzz of crews preparing dockside, Belfast Lough and Holywood town, will transform into a vibrant international Regatta - a showcase not just of competitive sailing, but of Northern Ireland's warm hospitality, stunning coastline and proud maritime heritage.

Lindsay Nolan, Commodore of the Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club, said: "We are incredibly proud to bring the GP14 World Championships to Belfast Lough in 2026.

"This event will be a true celebration of sailing - not just for our club, but for Northern Ireland as a whole. We're looking forward to welcoming competitors and visitors from around the world and giving them an unforgettable experience both on and off the water."

Beyond the racing, the event is expected to deliver a significant boost to local tourism and the wider economy, with visitors exploring everything from seaside towns and coastal walks to the vibrant culture and hospitality of the region.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Gillian McCollum, said: "Hosting the GP14 World Championships in 2026 is a fantastic opportunity for our borough and for Northern Ireland as a whole. Belfast Lough provides a spectacular natural stage for world-class sailing, and this event will bring significant benefits for the local economy while showcasing our coastline, tourism offering and maritime heritage to an international audience. I wish all competitors and organisers every success for what promises to be a memorable championship"

With a packed schedule of racing, social events and onshore celebrations planned, the GP14 World Championships 2026 will be more than a sporting event - it will be a moment for Northern Ireland to shine on the global stage.

Further announcements, including event highlights and visitor information, will be released in the coming months.

Keep up to date with event timings or if you would like to offer your volunteer services visit rniyc.org , email manager@rniyc.org or call +44 (0)28 9042 8041.