RORC Easter Challenge Ends With Standout Class Wins

 

The Royal Ocean Racing Club Easter Challenge concluded on Easter Sunday after three days of racing in the Solent. Two final races were held in bright sunshine, with a 15-knot westerly breeze easing and shifting north during the day. Seven races were completed across the regatta under the direction of Principal Race Officer Stuart Childerley.

Simon Patterson’s Fast40+ Standfast dominated IRC One with a perfect scoreline of seven race wins. Malcolm Offord’s TP52 Braveheart recovered from early non-starts to take second, while the De Graaf family’s Baraka GP finished third.

David Franks’ J/112 Leon led IRC Two, winning six races in a consistent series. The Army Sailing Association’s Fujitsu British Soldier secured second place with steady results, and Derek Shakespeare’s J/122 Bulldog finished third.

“The Easter Challenge has been a very good regatta for us,” said David Franks. “It is a proper shakedown. It tests the crew, the boat and the work done over winter.” He added, “You are racing properly. In the end, it often comes down to the team that makes the fewest mistakes.”

In IRC Three, John Smart’s J/109 Jukebox set the pace, winning the opening four races and maintaining strong results to secure overall victory. Oliver and Sam Love’s Frank 4 finished second, with Harry Heijst’s Winsome completing the podium.

“We definitely got quicker during the regatta,” said John Smart. “The teamwork improved all weekend, and that gives confidence for the season ahead.”

Coaching remained central to the event, led by Richard Moxey and supported by North Sails specialists, Olympian Vita Heathcote and coach Phil Devereux. Teams received on-water guidance and video debriefs ashore.

“The main aim is for teams to leave sailing better than when they arrived,” said Moxey. “You could see clear improvement across the fleet in demanding conditions.”

The prizegiving was held at the RORC Cowes clubhouse, where Vice Commodore Derek Shakespeare presented awards following the final races.

Competitors highlighted the value of the regatta. Lou Clayton described it as “a really valuable training regatta”, while Ian McMillan thanked organisers and coaches for their support and advice.

Free beginner sailing sessions at Royal Gourock Yacht Club

 

ASPIRING sailors are invited to learn the ropes at the Royal Gourock Yacht Club in preparation for its season starting in May.

The club is offering two free sailing sessions for those who register now.

On April 24, at 7pm, a kick-off meeting will be held at the club and everyone welcome.

For more information about signing up and registering for the sessions, visit the Royal Gourock Yacht Club website.

International Paint Poole Regatta and IRC Europeans 2026 early bird entry closes 10th April

 

Don't miss the early bird discount and submit your entry now and enjoy stunning racing in Poole Bay.

The 2026 IRC European Championship 22nd May - 25th May

The 2026 IRC Southern Area Championship 23rd May - 25th May

International Paint Poole Regatta 23rd May - 25th May

J80 National Championship

Sonata Southern Area Championship

Mini One Ton Cup

J24 Southern Area Championship

2.4m Tidal Championship

YTC Classes

VPRS Championship

Cape 31

Performance 40's

Performance 30's

TP52

J70, HP30, Contessa, Quarter Ton, Sports Boats

Folkboat, Sigma 33 & 38, Flying Fifteens, R19

Shrimpers

We are expecting in excess of 175 entries across all Classes so early entry helps our administration.

Find out more and get your entry in at pooleregatta.co.uk

Paignton Open for Single Handed Dinghies (POSH) 2026 entries open

 

Paignton Sailing Club is pleased to announce that entries are now open for the prestigious POSH (Paignton Open for Single Handed Dinghies) event, scheduled to take place on 9th and 10th May 2026.

Sailors interested in participating can register their entries via the official POSH web page. The entry fee includes dinner on Saturday evening, providing an opportunity for competitors to relax and socialise after a day's racing.

The event is generously sponsored by P&B (www.pinbax.com), a well-known supplier offering a wide range of sailing kit and equipment.

POSH will be held in the scenic Tor Bay, South Devon, a renowned sailing destination. Accommodation options are plentiful, ranging from comfortable apartments to luxury hotels, ensuring all participants and their families can find suitable lodging.

In addition to the racing, families of competitors can look forward to a variety of local attractions and activities, making the event enjoyable for everyone attending.

This year the event will also include the RS Aero 9 National Championship and the RS Vareo National Championships from the 8th to 10th May.

Thornbury Sailing Club Regatta Returns 6–7 June 2026

 

Thornbury Sailing Club is inviting local residents to enjoy a weekend of sailing, music and food as its annual Regatta returns on 6–7 June.

The popular event, held at the club’s Oldbury-on-Severn site, brings together sailors from across the region for two days of racing on the Severn Estuary.

This year’s regatta will also host the Yachting World Day Boat Open, with invitations extended to sailors from numerous local sailing clubs, promising competitive racing and a colourful spectacle on the water.

Racing takes place during the daytime, with fleets of dinghies launching from the club slipway and competing on the estuary as the tide allows.

Spectators are warmly welcome to come along and watch the action from the shoreline or from the clubhouse balcony, which offers scenic views across the Severn and an excellent vantage point for following the racing.

Live Music and Hog Roast

The celebrations continue on Saturday evening, when the regatta shifts from racing to entertainment.

From 19:00, visitors can enjoy live music from the Port of Bristol Sea Shanty Crew, bringing traditional maritime songs to the waterfront, alongside lively sets from the local Narwhal Band.

The evening will also feature a regatta hog roast, giving sailors, visitors and local residents the chance to enjoy food, music and a relaxed social atmosphere by the estuary.

Places for the hog roast can be booked in advance via the Thornbury Sailing Club website.

A Spectacular Setting

Thornbury Sailing Club has been part of the local sailing community for more than 75 years and is known for its unique tidal sailing on the Severn Estuary.

With panoramic views across the river and a welcoming clubhouse overlooking the water, the regatta weekend offers a great opportunity for visitors to see the club in action and experience the excitement of estuary sailing.

Club members say the regatta is always one of the highlights of the season.

“It’s a fantastic weekend with great racing on the water and a brilliant atmosphere ashore,” said a club spokesperson.

“We’re always delighted to welcome visitors to come along and enjoy the spectacle.”

Regatta at a Glance

Thornbury Sailing Club Regatta


📅 Saturday 6 – Sunday 7 June


📍 Oldbury-on-Severn

Highlights include:

Dinghy racing on the Severn Estuary

Yachting World Day Boat Open

Live music from 18:00 Saturday

Port of Bristol Sea Shanty Crew

Narwhal Band

Saturday evening hog roast 

Dartmouth Sailing Week launches first ever Youth Sailors Class in partnership with OneSails GBR

 

The 'OneSails Next Generation Class' aims to celebrate and grow youth participation at one of the UK's most prestigious regattas.

Dartmouth Sailing Week (22-30 August 2026) is proud to announce the inaugural OneSails Next Generation Class — a brand-new dedicated competition class designed to recognise, reward and inspire sailors aged 18 to 29*. Created in partnership with OneSails GBR, this initiative marks a landmark moment for one of the UK's most storied sailing regattas and reflects a wider commitment across the marine industry to tackle the decline in youth participation in sailing.

How It Works

Any boat entered into Dartmouth Sailing Week 2026 that has at least one crew member aged between 18 and 29 years old will be automatically entered into the OneSails Next Generation Class, in addition to their existing racing division (such as IRC2 or IRC3).

Throughout the regatta, OneSails will award a daily prize to the class winner, culminating in an overall prize presented at the end of the regatta to the outstanding youth entry across the full week of racing.

Additional Benefits for Youth Participants

As part of the partnership, OneSails GBR will offer an exclusive sail repair masterclass for all youth participants, providing hands-on, practical knowledge from experienced sailmakers that competitors can carry throughout their sailing careers. Further details on this and other benefits will be announced in due course.

Why This Matters

The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) has formally acknowledged a concerning decline in youth participation in sailing. Without a new generation of sailors actively engaged in the sport, the long-term future of competitive sailing, and the regattas that define it, is at risk.

The OneSails Next Generation Class has been established in direct response to this challenge. The regatta's ambition is to build on this class year on year, growing its reach, its prizes, and its impact, establishing Dartmouth Sailing Week as a flagship event for young competitive sailors across the UK.

"2026 is the 181st Dartmouth Royal Regatta. Our aim as a committee is to ensure it lasts for at least another hundred years, and part of that is to support and help young sailors thrive in this competitive, family-orientated, popular regatta."

— Peter Boote, Joint Regatta Sailing Committee Chair, Dartmouth Sailing Week

"It should be every marine industry company's responsibility to support the next generation of sailors coming through. We need to collectively find ways to break down the barriers that discourage youth participation. Partnership with this new class is one way we hope to add to this movement."

— Nathan Steffenoni, Director & Loft Manager, OneSails GBR South

*Participants must not be older than 29 years old throughout the duration of the regatta.

Dartmouth Sailing Week is one of the UK's longest-running sailing regattas, held annually in the waters around the historic port of Dartmouth, Devon. The 2026 edition runs from 22 to 30 August and includes the GBR IRC Nationals and J109 Nationals. For more information, visit www.dartmouthsailingweek.com

Strong Winds Test Crews At RORC Easter Challenge Opener

 

Cowes, Isle of Wight — The RORC Easter Challenge opened in brisk south-westerly winds on Friday, delivering testing conditions for more than 200 sailors. Winds of 15 knots, gusting to 30, created a demanding Solent racecourse for the Royal Ocean Racing Club’s early-season regatta, supported by North Sails.

Principal Race Officer Stuart Childerley and the race team ran practice starts before a windward-leeward race and a Solent marks course for all classes. After racing, crews gathered at the Cowes clubhouse for a structured video debrief led by coaching coordinator Richard Moxey, Olympian Vita Heathcote, North Sails’ Ronan Grealish and coach Phil Deveraux.

Sessions focused on boat handling, sail trim and performance in gusty conditions. “The key is not just the hoist itself, it is the communication that comes before it,” said Deveraux. “Everyone on board has to be seeing the same picture… A good hoist is rarely about one perfect action; it is about the crew working together.”

In IRC 2, David Franks’ J/112 Leon delivered two race wins to lead the class after day one. Leon secured victory in the opening race by 3 minutes 51 seconds on corrected time, ahead of the Army Sailing Association’s Fujitsu British Soldier, with Elysium IV third. The second race followed a similar pattern, with Leon extending its lead and maintaining a consistent margin over its rivals.

In IRC 3, John Smart’s J/109 Jukebox, with Cork Olympic helmsman Mark Mansfield onboard, also posted two wins from two starts. Jukebox won the first race by 1 minute 59 seconds from Frank 4, with Winsome third, before increasing its advantage in race two.

Elsewhere, Chris Shipman’s J/109 Rioja used the regatta as a development platform ahead of a mixed inshore-and-offshore campaign. North Sails’ Ruaridh Wright joined the team for the opening day. “Rioja is relatively new… the whole focus was on keeping things simple,” Wright said. “It was about getting round the course in a tidy fashion and making sure everyone settled into their roles.”

Wright noted steady progress during the day, with improved coordination and solid early results despite a newly formed crew. “The next step is to build on it, improve communication and keep repeating the good habits,” he added.

Racing continues over the weekend with further training and competition scheduled.

Morecambe Bay prawner Spray sails again after major restoration

 

An HISTORIC fishing boat has returned to sail at sea for the first time under the care of the Morecambe Bay Prawner Trust. 

‘Spray’ was built in 1896 by Crossfields of Arnside and is one of only a few surviving “Prawners” from the hundreds that once fished in Morecambe Bay.

The boat left Glasson Dock and made her way down the River Lune before hoisting her sails and heading into open water.

Spray spent much of her working life fishing out of Morecambe, but she also fished out of Barrow, Silloth, Maryport and the Wirrall.

In 2024 she passed into the stewardship of the Morecambe Bay Prawner Trust whose volunteers spent much of the following year doing the inevitable maintenance an elderly wooden boat requires and bringing her back into full commission.

Engine trials took place within Glasson Dock in autumn 2025, but it wasn’t until a recent combination of fine weather and recent Spring Tides that she was able to pass out of the dock basin, and into the Lune to raise her sails and head down to the Point of Lune and the Irish Sea beyond.

Skipper Tim Chittenden took Spray to sea for her latest voyage.

He said: “She’s very well-mannered and an absolute delight to sail. It says much about the skills of the old boat builders who combined to build such a seaworthy and powerful craft.

The fishing grounds for the Prawners were typically within three miles of the shore – a particularly challenging place to sail.

They evolved to deal with this and are particularly seaworthy – even in the notorious short sharp seas of the Irish Sea.

Their powerful gaff rigs enabled them to both haul nets and to put on a good turn of speed to stand a decent chance of being the first to land their catch and gain a premium price for the much sought after shrimps.

They were also designed to ‘take the ground’ and settle on the sand as the tide went out; an important consideration given that Morecambe Bay and wider eastern coast of the Irish Sea has very few easily accessible ports.

Alasdair Simpson, Chair of the Morecambe Bay Prawner Trust, called it “a very significant day and a huge achievement.”

He added: “All wooden boats require a lot of work – not least when they’re 130 years old – but she is looking magnificent.

“As our plans unfold, we aim go further afield around Morecambe Bay, not least to return to her old moorings off Morecambe’s Stone Jetty, but also to Piel Island and Fleetwood to highlight just what a remarkable maritime heritage the coastal waters of North West England have.”

Malta has rich history, stunning coastlines, vibrant culture, and Mediterranean charm

 

Here’s a family-friendly 7-day sailing itinerary around Malta, Gozo, and Comino designed specifically for short sailing legs, relaxed pace, and plenty of onshore activities (no heavy sailing focus, lots to do ashore).

This route works well because distances are short (often 5–25 nautical miles), meaning more time exploring towns, beaches, and attractions rather than long passages .

⚓ 7-Day Family Sailing Holiday – Malta (with onshore activities)

Day 1 – Arrival & Valletta / Three Cities

Board yacht (usually around Valletta or Msida Marina)

Easy sail or stay docked

Onshore activities:

Explore Valletta (UNESCO city)

Visit St John’s Co-Cathedral

Walk Upper Barrakka Gardens (great harbour views)

Evening meal in the historic Three Cities

👉 Great first day to settle kids in and avoid rushing

Day 2 – Valletta → Marsaxlokk (South Coast)

Short sail along dramatic coastline

Onshore activities:

Wander Marsaxlokk fishing village (colourful boats)

Sunday fish market (if timing fits)

Swim at St Peter’s Pool (natural rock swimming spot)

👉 Very relaxed day with authentic Maltese feel

Day 3 – Marsaxlokk → Blue Grotto / Dingli → Anchor North

Coastal sailing with swim stops

Onshore activities:

Boat trip into Blue Grotto caves

Short walk along Dingli Cliffs (highest point in Malta)

Optional countryside picnic

👉 Mix of nature + light exploration

Day 4 – Malta → Gozo (Mgarr Harbour)

Sail to quieter island of Gozo

Onshore activities:

Visit Victoria (Citadel fortress)

Explore local cafés and small shops

Optional jeep tour or taxi island tour

👉 Gozo is more rural and relaxed—ideal for families

Day 5 – Explore Gozo (short sailing hops)

Move around Gozo coastline

Stops & onshore options:

Ramla Bay (sandy beach – rare in Malta)

Xlendi Bay (lunch stop)

Dwejra Bay (Inland Sea & Blue Hole)

👉 This is a highlight day for variety and scenery

Day 6 – Gozo → Comino (Blue Lagoon & Crystal Lagoon)

Very short sail

Onshore activities:

Swim in Blue Lagoon (early morning best)

Walk around Comino island (easy hikes)

Explore caves and quieter Crystal Lagoon

👉 One of the most famous spots in Malta, best enjoyed early or late

Day 7 – Comino → Mellieha / Valletta

Return towards main island

Onshore activities:

Mellieha Bay (family-friendly sandy beach)

Popeye Village (great for younger kids)

Final evening in Valletta or St Julian’s

👉 Gentle finish before departure

👍 Why this works well for families

Short sailing distances → less tiring for children

Frequent swim stops & beaches

Mix of culture + nature + fun stops

Flexible itinerary (can adjust for weather easily)

⚠️ Practical tips

Best time: May–June or Sept–Oct (less crowded, good weather)

Consider a skippered charter if you want a stress-free trip

Start early for places like Comino (gets busy later)

Gozo deserves at least a full day—don’t rush it

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Four Class40 Entries Boost Round Ireland 2026 Fleet

 

Four Class40 yachts are now entered in the 2026 Round Ireland Yacht Race, lifting the overall fleet to 37 boats.

The latest entries add to the race’s international profile, with teams from France, Italy and the UK now confirmed in the high-performance offshore class.

Italy’s Luca Rosetti will race Maccaferri Futura, a 12.19m Class40 representing Club Nautico Rimini. Rosetti brings established offshore experience to the Wicklow start line.

France’s Djemila Tassin has entered Magenta, also a 12.19m Class40, continuing the growing French interest in the race.

British offshore sailor Greg Leonard will campaign Swift under the Royal Ocean Racing Club burgee, adding further depth to the Class40 line-up.

From Lorient, Pep Costa has entered VSF Sports, another 12.19m Class40, strengthening links with one of Europe’s key offshore racing hubs.

Wicklow Sailing Club is inviting Class40 teams back to Irish waters for the race start on Saturday, 20 June.

Organisers are targeting a strong turnout from the class, which has previously made a significant impression on the 704-nautical-mile course.

In 2018, the French Class40 Corum drew attention with a powerful start from Wicklow, helping establish the class’s reputation in Irish waters.

By 2022, the race secured a place on the official Class40 calendar, attracting increased international participation.

Race director Kyran O’Grady has continued to promote the event across European offshore networks.

“The Round Ireland is an iconic challenge that suits the Class40 ethos,” O’Grady previously told Afloat.ie.

The Notice of Race confirms a dedicated Class40 division for 2026, subject to a minimum of four entries and compliance with current class rules.

Entries remain open until 31 May.

Keyhaven Yacht Club Open Morning on 18th April

 

Keyhaven Yacht Club is a little club with a big personality. Nestled behind Hurst Castle, our friendly sailing club enjoys the sheltered bay and calmer sea created by the historic castle.

Join us for our Open Morning on Saturday 18th April, 10am-2pm, and discover everything we offer - from dinghy racing, yacht cruising and Women on Water to Junior/Youth sailing, kayaking and confidence-building sailing groups.

We are also an RYA Training Centre, delivering courses from Powerboat and Dinghy Sailing to First Aid and VHF Radio. With a lively social calendar too, there's something for everyone. Bar and kitchen open from midday - come and say hello!

Find out more at www.keyhavenyc.co.uk

Call for young people to become 2026 Tall Ships sail trainees

 

Young people across Aberdeen are being encouraged to have the adventure of a lifetime and apply to become sail trainees during this years’ Tall Ships Races. 

As part of the legacy from The Tall Ships Races Aberdeen 2025, this year’s sail trainee programme is recruiting 12 fully funded and four self-funded sail trainees to take part in this year’s Tall Ships Races, sailing aboard the historic vessel Swan.

Julie Wood, Aberdeen City Council’s Chief Officer for City Development and Regeneration, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for young people to get involved and embark on an exciting and unique adventure. 

“Our sail trainees last year showed a great deal of enthusiasm and commitment, and I encourage anyone who wants to learn new skills and make lasting friendships to get involved.”

Blair MacAskill, who participated in the 2025 Races, said: "The Tall Ships Races pushed me out of my comfort zone and opened doors I didn’t know existed. It’s an incredible experience for any young person seeking a once in a lifetime adventure where you will learn new skills, make lasting friendships, and be part of one of the most welcoming communities."

Bob Sanguinetti DL, CEO, Port of Aberdeen, said: "One of the highlights of hosting The Tall Ships Races was seeing so many local young people stepping aboard these historic ships and joining the crews for incredible journeys. Port of Aberdeen is proud to support this next group of sail trainees and I would encourage any young person who's even slightly curious to put their name forward - this really could be a life-changing experience."

Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, said: “One of the most tangible legacies of the Tall Ships Races Aberdeen is the impact being a sail trainee had on the young people who joined the crew of these beautiful ships, sailing to or from their home port of Aberdeen. So many have spoken about it being a truly life-changing experience.

“I am delighted this opportunity is being extended to young people in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire again for 2026. This is a call to adventure that I hope many of our next generation will answer.”

Young people aged 15 to 25 who live within an AB postcode are eligible to apply, and no previous sailing experience is required. 

Last year, 244 young people from across the north east joined the Tall Ships Races as sail trainees, marking the highest number of trainees from a host port. 

Successful applicants will become part of the Swan’s crew and take part in a leg of the 2026 Tall Ships Races, gaining handson sailing experience and developing confidence, teamwork and life skills.

Trainees will either set sail from Aberdeen to join the Cruise in Company leg in Harlingen, sailing onward to Antwerp, or join Race 2 from Antwerp to Stavanger. 

The Swan was built and launched in Shetland in 1900 and has since been restored to its former glory by a dedicated team of volunteers, previously visiting Aberdeen during the 2025 Tall Ships Races. 

The 2026 Tall Ships Races will depart from Aarhus (Denmark), before racing to Harlingen (Netherlands), Antwerp (Belgium), Stavanger (Norway) and finishing in Aalborg (Denmark). 

Applications are open until Thursday 16 April. Applicants must be available to take part from 29 June to 13 July. 

Anyone interested in applying should email TravelTrade@aberdeencity.gov.uk.  

Falmouth Classics Regatta 2026

 

Happening at the same time as the Falmouth International Shanty Festival will be the Falmouth Classics Sailing Regatta.

The event is the largest in the UK for ‘classic’ vessels, (that have been designed or built before 1976). Typically they are of wooden construction with a traditional layout of sails although modern vessels that replicate an older design also participate.

Before and after the racing you will be able to see them tied up alongside the marina off North Quay (part of Customs House Quay) and around 10:00am on the Friday, Saturday and Sunday they will be leaving their berths to assemble in Carrick Roads, (just off the main Falmouth Docks), to commence racing on Thursday and Friday. See the Programme of Events and details on entering to race, for those wishing to compete.

On Sunday morning, however, there is the Classic Parade of Sail when participating boats and many visitors from around Falmouth, all join together to ‘parade’. Their course will take them from the Docks towards Pendennis Castle, across to St Mawes Castle then back towards Mylor. This year’s theme will be ‘above the water’ and you will see that many of the crews will be in fancy dress, reflecting this theme.

There will also be a small boat parade which will take place on the water by the Royal Cornwall Yacht Club and Greenbank Hotel when the racing has finished on Saturday, and a ‘all-comers’ rowing and sculling event will also be held.

You can get up close to the fleet as the pontoons are open to the public on North Quay between 2.30pm and 5.00pm on Saturday, and you can watch the on-water action from various locations including Pendennis Point, Trefusis Point, (Flushing) or St.Mawes Castle. The Small boat Parade and Rowing and sculling are best viewed from the Royal Cornwall Yacht Club. Also on Customs House Quay will be the Maritime Village where many organisations try to entice you towards maritime themed produce and activities.

More information can be found at www.falmouthclassics.org.uk