Kestrel Open at Maylandsea Bay Sailing Club

 

It might be sufficient to say that the clubhouse recorded a 35 knot gust at midday.

This was a brutal end of season bash. The initial entry of 13 was whittled down by the weather forecast and one rather scary mishap on the M1 when a rear back wheel blew out taking a chunk of camper van and electrics with it.

For the hardy souls who ventured out of Maylandsea creek the sunshine disguised what was waiting out there. Large, short chop, vicious gusts and sticky black mud for those who succumbed and the usual impenetrable course round a multitude of locally identified marks known only to the locals.

Despite the conditions 10 boats made it to the line and 9 finished race one and 8 race 2.

Howie Enkel and Danni Tebutt who were far from the heaviest team in the fleet, provided a master class in heavy weather sailing winning both races. In race one they were followed home by Stewart Murdoch and Dave Hersum and in race 2 Mark Batt and Tony Everitt.

Sunday promises to be slightly easier on the body and the burgees!

Results after Day 1:

Pos Sail No Helm Crew R1 R2 Pts

1 1574 Howard Enkel Danni Tebutt 1 1 2

2 1593 Mark Batt Tony Everritt 3 2 5

3 1636 Stuart Murdoch Dave Hearshum 2 3 5

4 1472 Chris Grice Lauren Grice 4 4 8

5 1587 Glenn Enkel Celie Broomfield 5 5 10

6 1605 Paul Wilkinson Daniel Wilkinson 7 6 13

7 1612 Dave Gibson Peter Gibson 6 8 14

8 1553 Richard Anthony Ian Rintoul RET 7 18

9 446 Jorrit Schrauwers Toby Schrawers 8 DNS 19

10 1634 Dean Saxton Mark Harman RET DNS 22

Hayling Island RS200 Sandy Shell 2026

 

With a stacked entry list (as come to be expected!) including multiple national champions and Olympians a fresh forecast for 4 sharp races against the best in the country the scene was set to decide the 2026 champion.

First race saw wind with tide, flat sea state, blunt gusts over a 15 knot avg. Paul Hammett and his brilliant race crew swiftly kicked off the racing. A gruelling 10 seconds passed before some people were spotted drop hiking (you know who you are!). Rob Henderson and Rebecca Videlo were out the blocks hot - taking the first shift and running away with the race like a run-away locomotive. A hypersonic speed they demonstrates the whole day. The loving duo of Tommy Darling and Liv Stanley took a tidy second place closely followed by James Peters and Maddy Anderson who returned to the 200 scene and quickly got back into their habits old!

Race two - on the turn of the tide, saw another escape from the fleet by Rob and Rebecca. James and Maddy led the charge for the rest of us, and Cam Stewart and Chris O’Neill snuck a well deserved third place.

Wind holding consistent (albeit gusty) the fleet now decided best to head left from the pin to take more of the slack/ebbing tide. The third race saw the same names locking out the front of the fleet - James and Maddy, Tommy and Liv, and Rob and Rebecca.

The final race of the day saw the fleet overlay the port layline. Although mathematically safe, Rob and Rebecca showed class leading from the defending champions Ollie Evans and Zoe Nieveen (who would later found out they were unfortunately UFD) allowing Jamie Harris and Ellen Main to take the crucial second place points.

Overall, huge congratulations to the dialled in duo of Rob and Rebecca - champions of the Sandy Shell 2026. James and Maddy 2nd overall, and 3rd for Jamie and Ellen.

Special mentions (duckhams if you will) to Harry Chatterton for christening the brand new 200 with a little swim and kite difficulties despite spending 3 weekends bimbling! And Theo Williams who found tacking a bit harder than usual after ‘upgrading’ to a tiller extension long enough for a Nacra!

See you at a RS200 sprints this winter!

World title showdown heads to legendary Tiree Wave Classic

 

The world's best wave sailors are descending on the legendary Scottish island of Tiree for the 2026 Tiree Wave Classic, with an epic forecast, a packed international field and two fiercely contested World Championship title races setting the stage for another spectacular showdown on the World Windsurf Tour (WWT).

At the centre of the action is one of the most exciting rivalries in professional windsurfing: reigning World Champion Marc Paré (Spain) against five-time World Champion Philip Köster (Germany).

After another dramatic encounter at the Wissant World Cup in France, where Paré claimed victory and moved narrowly ahead of Köster in the 2026 world rankings, the two superstars arrive in Scotland ranked world number one and two, with the championship battle still wide open.

And neither is backing down.

The world's top two men are going head-to-head again at a 4-STAR World Cup — and the fans are loving it!

With valuable championship points on offer, every heat matters as the season builds toward its ultimate conclusion at the Chile Grand Final in December.

Legendary Tiree. Epic conditions.

Few locations in world windsurfing carry the history and reputation of Tiree.

Exposed to the full force of the North Atlantic, this remote Scottish island has become legendary for its powerful winds, rolling Atlantic swells and spectacular wave sailing conditions.

The latest forecast promises big winds and solid swells, creating the potential for an extraordinary week of competition.

The event will begin with the amateur and junior divisions before building toward the professional men's and women's contests, culminating in an explosive Finals Day, broadcast LIVE worldwide on WWT YouTube and the WWT HUB.

The Tiree Wave Classic is delivered in partnership with the British Wavesailing Association (BWA), led by BWA President and event organiser William McLean, whose commitment to British wave sailing continues to make this historic event possible.

35 men. One epic battle.

The 35-rider men's field brings together an outstanding mix of international World Cup stars, British professionals and ambitious amateur challengers.

Behind Paré and Köster, world number three Marino Gil Gherardi (Spain) arrives determined to challenge the championship leaders, alongside fellow Spaniard Miguel Chapuis, Belgium's Dieter Van der Eyken and France's Jules Denel.

British hopes will be led by Lucas Meldrum, alongside established names including Ben Proffitt, Andy Chambers, Ben Page and James Cox, with a strong contingent of local and national challengers eager to make their mark against the world's elite.

With advance-seeded professionals meeting hungry challengers, Tiree promises the kind of unpredictable, high-stakes competition that has made the WWT's 4-STAR World Cup Challenger Tour such an exciting part of the championship.

Women's world title race heats up

The women's competition promises another major chapter in the 2026 World Championship season, with 11 athletes ready to take on Tiree's demanding Atlantic conditions.

Leading the field is Polish wave sailing legend Justyna Sniady, one of the sport's most accomplished competitors and a formidable presence in powerful conditions.

But a new generation is coming fast.

Britain's rising star Cori McFarlane will be looking to make a major impact on home waters, while Germany's talented young sisters Frida and Emma Miron bring fresh energy and ambition to the international field.

They will face strong competition from Izzy Adcock, Caitlin Boothroyd, Georgia Stolliday and a determined group of challengers.

With the women's World Championship race intensifying as the season approaches its final stages, Tiree offers another valuable opportunity to earn world ranking points and build momentum.

The next generation and the legends

The Tiree Wave Classic is much more than a professional World Cup.

Eight young athletes will contest the Junior U18 division, including Germany's Peter Gobisch and Britain's Eddie Maclean and Mikey Maclean, showcasing the next generation of international wave sailing talent.

Meanwhile, a competitive 15-rider Masters division will feature British fan favourite and world title contender Ben Proffitt, alongside John McLawrence, Nick Jupp and a strong field of experienced competitors.

From emerging juniors to established legends, Tiree will showcase the full depth of the sport and the pathway through the WWT's global 5-STAR competition pyramid.

The road to the world title

The 2026 World Windsurf Tour is delivering one of the most compelling championship battles in recent years.

Paré and Köster have been trading blows throughout the season, pushing each other to extraordinary performances and giving fans a title race that remains on a knife-edge.

Now the battle moves to Scotland.

Big winds. Powerful Atlantic waves. A legendary island. And the world's best athletes fighting for every point.

The stage is set for another unforgettable Tiree Wave Classic.

Watch live worldwide

The 2026 Tiree Wave Classic runs 10-16 October, with competition progressing through the amateur, junior, Masters and professional divisions as conditions allow.

The decisive professional action and Finals Day will be broadcast live worldwide.

WWT YouTube

WWT HUB, live scoring and event information

Event: 2026 Tiree Wave Classic

Location: Tiree, Scotland

Status: 4-STAR World Cup Challenger

Event partner: British Wavesailing Association (BWA)

Event organiser: William McLean, BWA President

Keep Sailing All Winter at Grafham Water

 

Winter doesn't mean the end of sailing at Grafham Water. With its 1,550-acre reservoir, competitive fleets and full programme of racing and coaching, Grafham Water Sailing Club is preparing for another season of fast and enjoyable winter sailing.

From October through to the end of March, the club welcomes sailors and windsurfers looking to keep racing, sharpen their skills or simply enjoy getting out on the water during the colder months.

Conveniently located between Cambridge, Milton Keynes and Peterborough, Grafham attracts sailors from across the region and beyond. Winter fleets include ILCAs, Flying Fifteens, Solos, D-Zeros, Spitfires, F18s, A-Class Cats and RS classes, providing competitive racing for a wide range of boats and abilities.

Winter Membership runs from 31st October to 31st March, giving sailors opportunity to sail in the Sunday Race Series. Three back-to-back races are held each Sunday morning across four starts, providing competitive racing for a wide range of boats.

The Winter Series is complemented by a Sprint Series, with one Sunday each month in January, February and March featuring five short, high-intensity races. The traditional Christmas Pursuit Race provides another highlight, followed by a festive club dinner.

2026 is a special year for the club as it celebrates its 60th anniversary. The club continues to offer sailing for all ages and abilities, from those looking to improve their skills and gain confidence on the water to experienced sailors looking for competitive racing.

Winter membership costs £110 for a single-hander, including boat park space, or £130 for a double-hander with two members. There is a 50% discount for under-30s, making Grafham an especially affordable winter sailing option for younger sailors. Winter members also receive discounted entry to the Grand Prix on Sunday 3rd January, as well the opportunity to sail seven days a week.

For full details and online entry, visit www.grafham.org, email office@grafham.org or call 01480 810478.

Plea to save Victor, Ipswich's 130-year-old barge

 

A barge described as a "treasured icon" could be left to rot and her popular passenger voyages axed if £100,000 is not raised to save her.

Sailing barge Victor, built in Ipswich in 1895, helped establish the town as an agricultural port and was used to deliver cargo all around the East of England.

It has been on the market for a number of years but has generated little interest, due to the economic demands of maintaining the vessel, casting doubt over its future.

Judy Harrison, founding trustee of the Victor 1895 Community Heritage Trust, said the barge would meet a "sad end" if the group was unable to raise enough money to buy it.

"Sailing barges are becoming very rare – there were once thousands of them sailing around, but now there are very few still in commission," Harrison said.

"Victor will either fall into the hands of someone who wants a houseboat but won't have the resources to maintain her, or be beached and left to rot away."

In more recent years, hundreds of people have ventured aboard the traditional barge, which has taken them on pleasure trips along the River Orwell.

If the trust is to buy the barge, it will still need to generate funds to maintain her, and continuing such trips could become a vital source of income.

"There is a strong possibility that her very survival will be at stake," added Harrison.

"We need to improve the condition of Victor to the point we know she'll be around beyond our lifetimes for the people of Ipswich to value and enjoy."

Victor, which has welcomed more than 100,000 visitors, was built by Horace Shrubsall at the Dock End Yard 131 years ago, for Owen Parry.

She was part of a working waterfront, carrying between 90 and 120 tonnes of cargo around the shallow waters of the East Coast during her working heyday.

The barge, docked at Neptune Quay in Ipswich, is listed on the National Register of Historic Ships, although this does not offer her any protection.

The trust also wants to save the barge so it can use her continued presence in the area to create maritime careers, keep traditional skills alive - and "bring people together".

Her skipper of 21 years, Wes Westwood, who also worked for the port authority for 27 years, is hanging up his captain's hat.

"I'm sad [to retire] but you think your life is changing and you need to do your own thing - rather than caring totally for a barge," he said.

"Every day has been a good memory."

The Aeolian Islands are superb for a Sailing Adventure

 

The Aeolian Islands are superb for a sailing adventure because you can combine short, enjoyable sailing legs with volcanoes, swimming, snorkelling, villages, food and plenty of time ashore. A week gives you a lovely balance without spending all day at sea.

⛵ My suggested 7-day Aeolian adventure

I'd recommend starting and finishing at Lipari or nearby Milazzo/Portorosa, depending on the yacht charter. The route below concentrates on the islands that offer the best combination of sailing and activities. Most passages are only around 2–4 hours, leaving plenty of time for exploring.

Day 1 – Lipari → Vulcano

Sail: ~3–5 nautical miles

Start gently with a short sail across to Vulcano.

Onshore adventure:

Climb Gran Cratere for spectacular views across the archipelago.

Explore the volcanic landscape.

Relax on the black-sand beach.

Try Vulcano's famous thermal mud baths and hot-water area.

Dinner ashore overlooking the harbour.

The crater walk is particularly worthwhile early or late in the day when temperatures are lower.

Overnight: Vulcano.

Day 2 – Vulcano → Lipari → Salina

Sail: ~15–18 nautical miles in total

Head north to Lipari for a morning stop.

Lipari activities:

Walk through the old town.

Visit the castle and archaeological museum.

Browse the little shops and cafés.

Stock up on local food and provisions.

Then sail on to Salina, the greenest and arguably most beautiful of the Aeolian Islands.

Evening: Wander around Santa Marina Salina and enjoy a relaxed Sicilian dinner.

Salina is particularly good for families because it feels less developed and hectic than some of the other islands.

Day 3 – Salina: island exploration day

Sailing: short coastal sailing/swimming stops

I'd deliberately make this a slower day.

Sail around the island and stop at Pollara, the spectacular collapsed volcanic crater made famous by Il Postino.

Onshore activities:

Walk through the old village.

Explore the volcanic coastline.

Visit vineyards.

Taste local Malvasia wine and island produce.

Have a long lunch overlooking the sea.

Swim and snorkel from the yacht.

For a family trip, I'd make this one of the more relaxed days rather than trying to tick off another island.

Day 4 – Salina → Panarea

Sail: ~11–14 nautical miles

Panarea is completely different: tiny, beautiful and rather glamorous.

Anchor around Cala Junco or another suitable bay depending on the weather.

Afternoon adventure:

Dinghy exploration around the little islands of Basiluzzo, Lisca Bianca and Dattilo.

Snorkelling in crystal-clear water.

Swim from the yacht.

Walk the narrow lanes of Panarea.

Ice cream and cafés in the village.

Evening: Dinner ashore and watch the sunset.

Day 5 – Panarea → Stromboli

Sail: ~12–13 nautical miles

This is your big adventure day.

As you sail towards Stromboli, the volcano dominates the horizon.

Spend the afternoon swimming and exploring the village before preparing for the highlight of the trip.

🌋 Stromboli after dark

Head offshore in the evening and watch the volcano's activity from the sea, particularly around the Sciara del Fuoco.

The glowing eruptions against the night sky are one of the great Mediterranean sailing experiences.

If conditions and current volcanic restrictions permit, you could also arrange a guided volcanic excursion ashore. I would treat this as optional rather than building the whole itinerary around it because access and restrictions can change.

Overnight: Stromboli or, if conditions dictate, return to Panarea.

Day 6 – Stromboli → Filicudi

Sail: ~20–25 nautical miles

This is your proper sailing-adventure day.

Filicudi is much wilder and quieter than Panarea.

Activities:

Snorkel around the volcanic coastline.

Take the dinghy to Grotta del Bue Marino.

Visit the prehistoric settlement at Capo Graziano.

Walk up into the hills for panoramic views.

Have dinner at the tiny harbour village of Pecorini a Mare.

This would probably be my choice for the quietest and most adventurous evening of the week.

Day 7 – Filicudi → Lipari

Sail: ~20–25 nautical miles

Enjoy a final morning sail back towards Lipari.

I'd stop for a final swim and snorkel along Lipari's spectacular western coast before returning to the harbour.

Final afternoon:

Explore Lipari's old town.

Visit the castle.

Enjoy a long Italian lunch.

Buy local food/wine for the journey home.

Finish with a sunset dinner overlooking the harbour.

🌋 The week at a glance

Day Island Main adventure

1 Vulcano 🌋 Volcano + thermal baths

2 Lipari → Salina 🏛️ History + island life

3 Salina 🍇 Villages, vineyards + swimming

4 Panarea 🤿 Snorkelling + hidden coves

5 Stromboli 🌋 Night-time volcano spectacle

6 Filicudi 🧭 Wild island + caves

7 Lipari ⛵ Final sail + Italian evening

⭐ Why I particularly like this itinerary

It gives you three different types of adventure:

Active: crater walks, island walks, snorkelling, caves and dinghy exploration.

Sailing: enough genuine passages to make it feel like a sailing holiday rather than a boat-based island tour, but without exhausting everyone.

Family time: plenty of afternoons where you can simply swim, paddleboard, snorkel, eat ice cream or explore a village.

One important point: the Aeolians are more weather-sensitive than somewhere like the Ionian Islands. There are relatively few all-weather harbours and many anchorages are exposed to particular wind directions, so I'd use this as a framework rather than a rigid itinerary. Local skippers routinely alter the order according to wind and swell.

For a family holiday, I would also strongly favour a skippered yacht or catamaran unless you're already very comfortable with Mediterranean island sailing. Italy's tourism guidance specifically recommends professional local skippers for a relaxed and safe Aeolian itinerary.

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Ancasta broker takes on marathon challenge for the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust

 

Ancasta broker James Douch is taking on the London Marathon in April 2027, adding a very personal contribution to Ancasta Group's ongoing support of the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust.

As Beneteau Sail Brand Manager at Ancasta, the UK's leading Beneteau dealer, James has played an integral role in the specification, commissioning and adaptation of the latest yacht to join the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust fleet - the Beneteau Oceanis 47, Peter PAN.

"It's less about the marathon itself and more about the Trust and the amazing work it does to help young people rebuild their confidence, independence and optimism after cancer treatment," says James.

"Having worked closely with the Trust to adapt Peter PAN and make it more accessible to the young people who sail on her, I wanted to do something more to support the charity. I'd heard that if you're ever going to run a marathon, London is the one to do - and, rather coincidentally, the Trust approached me about running for them after I'd already submitted my application."

James has set himself a fundraising target of £2,250, with the next seven months dedicated to training and, ultimately, making it to the finish line.

"I don't consider myself a runner in the slightest, and at 5'4" I'm convinced this is more of an ultramarathon for me, as I'll have to take far more steps than everyone else!" he jokes. "Training is going well so far, and I'm learning that it's okay to be uncomfortable. There's still a long way to go, but knowing what the fundraising is supporting gives me plenty of motivation."

The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust inspires young people aged 8-24 to believe in a brighter future after the trauma of cancer treatment. For many, returning to the life they had before their diagnosis simply isn't possible. The Trust's work begins when treatment ends, using sailing and outdoor adventure to help young people rebuild their confidence and look ahead with renewed optimism.

Frank Fletcher, Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust CEO, says: "We cannot thank James enough for taking on this incredible challenge for the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust. All the money he raises will make a tangible difference in improving the mental wellbeing of young people who are living through and beyond cancer across the UK. It was a pleasure getting to know James through the development and delivery of Peter PAN, and his latest commitment is testament to the strength and value of our relationship with Ancasta over many years. We wish James all the best and say 'thanks' again."

As the UK's leading Beneteau dealer, Ancasta Group is proud to support the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, and has helped the charity secure and commission the high-quality sailing yachts at the heart of its life-changing programmes.

Working closely with the Trust, Ancasta's expert team has managed the specification and commissioning of the four Beneteau yachts in its fleet, while Ancasta Yacht Services has undertaken specialist adaptations and accessibility modifications to ensure each yacht meets the needs of the young people who sail onboard.

"James' marathon challenge is another example of how Ancasta's support for the Trust extends far beyond the supply of yachts themselves," says Matthew Shave, Ancasta Group CEO.

"Across the Group, we're committed to raising awareness of the Trust's mission and using our platforms, events and industry network to help amplify the charity's message and the profound impact its work has on young people rebuilding their confidence and independence after cancer."

To support James in his marathon challenge and help raise vital funds for the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, donate here:     2027tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/james-douch

Award nomination 'phenomenal', says veteran amputee

A British Army veteran who made history as the first triple amputee to sail solo, non-stop and unsupported across the Pacific Ocean has been nominated for a prestigious disability award.

Craig Wood lost both legs and his left hand in a blast from an improvised explosive device in Afghanistan aged 18. After discovering sailing during his rehabilitation, he made history after completing the voyage from Mexico to Japan in 90 days.

He is nominated for the inspiration award at the Variety Disability Sports Awards.

"I'm a guy from Doncaster, I never thought I'd be put on this road of my life earning awards," he said. "It's not something that I thought I'd be part of, so it's just phenomenal."

The awards were launched by the Variety children's charity in 2023 to celebrate the achievements, dedication, and impact of individuals and groups across the disability sports community.

Other 2026 nominees include double Paralympic gold medallist Richard Whitehead MBE, who is nominated in both the inspiration award and outstanding individual achievement award.

Other nominees for awards include Loughborough University, Boccia England and England women's blind football team.

Now 33, he was three months into his first tour when he was injured in Sangin, southern Afghanistan, in 2009.

Wood, who took up sailing to help rebuild his confidence, described completing the 7,506-nautical-mile journey in 2025 as both "incredibly amazing" and "overwhelming".

The father-of-four now works with veterans, teaching them to sail and helping others affected by trauma.

He hopes to train as a counsellor and use his boat as a space to support fellow veterans.

"Sailing has become this thing which I'm really good at and it's sort of the thing that makes me feel best about myself," he said.

"I feel like I can give to the community that I'm in with it."

The awards ceremony, raising money for specialist equipment, accessible transport and practical support for disabled and disadvantaged young people, will take place in London on Monday.

Waltzing off down under - The UK's Contender fleet is now loaded for Australia

 

2027 will see the 60th Anniversary of the birth of the International Contender, so it is only fitting that the class will be heading back to its roots by holding their next World Championship at the famed Brighton & Seacliff Yacht Club, just south of beautiful Adelaide in South Australia.

For the UK sailors, packing their boats up at the end of the domestic sailing season (and then hoping that they will have returned before events kick off at home in 2027) is a well-worn pastime, with ten of the World Championships to date being sailed in Australian waters, though this will be the first time the fleet have been to South Australia.

The visit to Adelaide is shaping up to be a real delight for the Contender sailors from around the world, as it is a delightful place to visit, relaxed, friendly, with great beaches and truly superb sailing in the St Vincent Gulf. The 5o5s were just a few miles north of the city just two years ago and enjoyed wonderful sailing in a breeze that built steadily through the day but never really hit any worrying extremes.

BUT - all the signs are that the super El Nino that has been forecast may have a part to play come race day. With the latest forecasts suggesting that the UK might have to suffer a hard, cold and stormy winter, those who fly out to the event could be met with some soaring temperatures with the risk that this might give the breeze an added spice. However, as the saying at championships everywhere goes, "it's never like this normally."

For those that are escaping the cold here at home, to date everything may seem to have been in the abstract, except for those struggling through the layers of bureaucracy to deal with the task of planning the transport of boats and themselves, then dealing with the ever difficult Australian Customs and bio-security. That all changed today as ten boats arrived at the Peters & May facility in Eastleigh for the fun task of loading boats, rigs, gear and launching trollies into the container - but absolutely nothing else, as everything had to be sanitised before loading.

Under the watchful  gaze of Garry Langdown the interior framework was constructed allowing the boats to be shoehorned in and the final bags of gear added.

Peters & May confirmed that the container will next head straight down to the nearby Southampton Container Port, where it will be loaded onto a ship early next week. The Suez Canal/Red Sea route is considered too dangerous so the route will take the vessel around the Cape of Good Hope and on to Singapore for transhipment to Adelaide, where it should be received and (hopefully) cleared through Customs sometime around Christmas/the New Year.

With the boats of Netley Sailing Club's Graeme Willcox and Simon Mussell, who have both won the World Championship title now loaded, the UK is sending a very good team out to Australia, and we wish them all well. Let's hope they come back with more than just a South Australian tan, because the next Worlds will be at the Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy in the July of 2028, the first time the event has been held in our home waters for 17 years.

2026 Squib Inland Championship at Rutland Sailing Club

 

Last year's howling winds were this weekend replaced by a forecast of extremely low wind and as other clubs and fleets took the decision to cancel early, the PRO, Don Munro, welcomed the fleet of 20 to this year's Squib Inland Championship at Rutland with a promise that he would do his best to get the fleet racing.

As Saturday dawned, the wind was there but very light and with an expectation that it would drop by the afternoon the fleet got out onto the water with fingers crossed that it wasn't to be a wasted journey. A 2 lap windward leeward course was set (avoiding the many fishing boats) and amazingly the fleet set off first go. Lady Penelope looked to have made a good start on port from the pin however a slight error in crossing the fleet required a penalty turn and pushed them down the fleet. Meanwhile What's the Story, Discord and Wildfire took the right hand side of the course. Up the middle of the course, and with a lovely lift on port tack, were Guy Fawkes and Spoof. By the first mark it was What's the Story (WTS) followed by Spoof. Downwind was painful as the rest of the fleet gathered speed and converged at the leeward mark. Whilst WTS rounded first they had a difficult decision as to who to cover - Spoof who had headed left after the mark or Croc who were looking favourable on the right. Ultimately it was the left hand side that paid and Spoof were able to reach the mark first and hold the lead to the finish. WTS held off a late challenge from Lady Penelope to take second. For the remainder of the fleet the wind slowly fizzled out and the PRO took the decision to whisky the final few to avoid being timed out.

Unfortunately the wind switched off after this first race and it was back to the club and all important awarding of the DOTD jacket (freshly recovered after a years rest in Lowestoft...) After being awarded it the Friday evening, Nick Milton took the opportunity to award it to Chris Jordan who had wrongly thought the leeward mark was the pin end of the line.

Sunday and, after a short postponement, a different location for racing as we headed left away from the moorings. The first race was tricky with the wind shifting to the left shortly after the start, however the decision was made to continue the race and get a regatta in. It was Chequemate who managed to get ahead and round the first mark but with the wind shifting they found the perfect hole just by the spreader mark and six boats were able to overtake. Spoof wiggled free and appeared to have a convincing lead heading to the final mark but typically found a similar lovely hole just before the mark to wait and hear everyone else catching up! Thankfully the wind reached them just in time to avoid being overtaken and they were able to take the win ahead of SQUIB and Croc.

After some deliberation and discussion, it was decided that with the wind flicking back to its original bearing there was sufficient breeze and time for a decent third race. The fleet got away cleanly once again (no general recalls at all!) and there was no one clear path to take resulting in boats arriving at the mark from various directions. Coming in from the right was Willpower whilst from the left came Chequemate, however it was Spoof once again getting round and popping their kite first. As the race progressed it was WTS who took second place ahead of Willpower and Chequemate.

And with the completion of the third race, the decision was made to head to the pontoon for recovery. With three bullets it was clearly Spoof (Micky Wright & Alex Porteous at the top of the table (for the first time at a Squib Inlands) however the rest of the podium positions were taken by What's The Story (Nic Tolhurst & Ross Corbett) and Chequemate (Ray Apthorp & Ian Simons) giving the Royal Corinthian fleet a full sweep. The prize-giving was held as boats were recovered and thanks given to the PRO, his team of volunteers and Rutland Sailing Club for their hard work over the weekend.

This concludes the UK travelling events for 2026 and with that the Travellers' Trophy was awarded to Guy Fawkes (Phil Aspinall & Dave Shepherd) for the sheer amount of travelling they have done this year (including a trip to Edinburgh for the northerns just a few weeks earlier). Next year we have a jam packed schedule with the Nationals at the Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club in June and the new build squib to be unveiled at the RYA Dinghy Show in March. Lots to get involved in but now boats go back to continue their club racing and make their preparations for the year ahead.

Overall Results:

Pos Helm Crew Sail No Club R1 R2 R3 Pts

1 Micky Wright Alex Porteous 811 RCYC 1 1 1 3

2 Nic Tolhurst Ross Corbett 779 RCYC 2 5 2 9

3 Raymond Apthorp Ian Simons 157 Royal Corinthian YC 5 4 4 13

4 Malcolm Hutchings Andy carley 819 Burnham sc and rcyc 3 6 8 17

5 Chris Jordan Gillian Jordan 855 WOBYC 9 3 6 18

6 Phillip Aspinall Dave Sheppard 72 Royal Corinthian YC 6 9 5 20

7 Will Davies Kevan Gibb 832 Royal Forth Yacht Club 7 12 3 22

8 David Pinner Jono Baker 91 HPYC / FFSC 4 8 12 24

9 Chris Hill James Pritchard 104 Royal Dart YC 12 7 10 29

10 DICK BATT PETE RICHARDS 11 RVYC 11 2 DNC 34

11 Michael Airey K Noon 889 RSC 8 16 14 38

12 Andrew Moore Peter Hallinan 881 Felix Stowe Ferry 19 13 7 39

13 Derek Gibb Alistair Reid 888 Royal Forth Yacht Club 13 17 9 39

14 Gerard Dyson Richard Delves 800 RYYC/SYC/SCYC 17 11 11 39

15 Brad Hilton Guy Hilton 817 Rutland Sailing Club 15 10 15 40

16 Tudor Roberts Ieuan Williams 878 Holyhead sailing club 18 15 13 46

17 Christopher Wright Peter Ashworth 192 RSC 16 14 16 46

18 Gavin Kemp Nick Milton 815 RCYC 10 DNC DNC 52

19 Mike Hughes Garry Caterall 444 WKSC 14 DNC DNC 56

20 Richard Lindly Steve Rice 220 RSC 20 DNF 17 58

North-South Races Proposed in ISORA Programme Shake-Up

 

A proposal to broaden ISORA’s offshore programme with more north-south racing along the Irish coast is among the ideas being put forward for discussion at the association’s 2026 AGM.

Barry O’Connor’s proposal suggests looking beyond ISORA’s predominantly east-west Irish Sea programme by introducing courses to destinations including Carlingford and Kilmore Quay, as well as other ports suggested by members.

The north-south concept would not be entirely new territory for ISORA. In 2023, the association switched tack for a Northern Ireland weekend, partnering with Royal Ulster Yacht Club for a Holyhead to Strangford Lough offshore race followed by a second race from Strangford to a mid-Irish Sea finish.

The proposal has already prompted ISORA chairman Peter Ryan to identify a potential Bangor to Dún Laoghaire race ahead of Volvo Dún Laoghaire Regatta as one option for strengthening the north-south element of the programme.

New Destinations for ISORA

O’Connor’s proposal is intended for discussion rather than a formal decision at the AGM, with members being asked to consider possible destinations and whether new courses should replace existing races or be added to the calendar.

As Afloat previously reported, ISORA’s 2027 race programme and race-management arrangements are among the principal items for discussion at the November AGM.

The proposal says greater variety could provide fresh challenges for regular competitors, involve new host ports and clubs and potentially make ISORA racing more attractive to new boats and younger crews.

Practical considerations identified include tides, harbour access and depth, fleet berthing and the delivery distances involved in getting boats home after races.

A Bangor–Dún Laoghaire race immediately before the regatta would also continue an established link between ISORA offshore racing and Volvo Dún Laoghaire Regatta.

Ryan said the existing UK and Irish communication groups had been designed partly around coastal racing, while an offshore group encompassing the entire fleet could provide a common forum.

Crew Manager Changes Proposed

A second proposal would make the skipper’s post-race completion declaration on ISORA’s Crew Manager app mandatory.

Under the proposal, a boat whose skipper does not complete the declaration would not receive a result for that race. The measure is intended in particular to ensure accurate crew records for the Under-25 Sailor Prize, introduced by ISORA for the 2026 season to encourage younger sailors into offshore racing, after incomplete declarations affected the ability to credit eligible young sailors this season.

Ryan strongly supported greater compliance with Crew Manager, describing it as an important safety tool, while acknowledging that monitoring compliance had slipped because of the small number of people involved in organising races.

John Malone has also suggested extending the pre-race declaration to allow competitors to declare an updated IRC certificate or TCC, or switch between primary and secondary certificates. He proposed that boats should also be able to declare whether they are racing double-handed or fully crewed.

O’Connor suggested any certificate change should have to be declared seven days before the race.

One ISORA WhatsApp Group

The third proposal would consolidate ISORA’s three non-committee WhatsApp groups into one members’ group, while leaving the committee group unchanged.

The case for consolidation is that notices, race information and safety messages currently have to be posted across several groups, potentially splitting conversations and duplicating information.

Ryan has backed consolidation for offshore communications while suggesting the UK and Irish groups continue to have a role for coastal matters.

The AGM is scheduled for Saturday, 14 November at 3pm at the National Yacht Club in Dún Laoghaire, followed by the ISORA dinner that evening.

707 Sprints Regatta 2026 at Port Edgar Yacht Club

 

After a two-year gap, PEYC, once again, held the 707 Sprints Regatta on the 3-4 October: the last 707 UK Event of the year. 14 yachts booked for the event held in Inverkeithing Bay, just east of the iconic three Forth Bridges.

The yachts were split into two fleets, Green and White, on the Saturday, based on their results at 707 Events throughout 2026, and split again on the Sunday seeded into two fleets, Yellow and Blue, based on their results on the Saturday.

The courses were all short windward-leeward with the two fleets starting separately on the courses, and each day's racing regarded as a separate series for each fleet.

Conditions were excellent on the Saturday with neap tides, a warm and sunny day, and a steady breeze all day from the southwest of averaging 12 knots but with gusts up to 22.

The Race Officer, Paul Deponio, had a slick team on the club committee boat, EuRoBo, organised by Margaret Tait, and an enthusiastic well organised support team of the club motor boat, Beamer, with the redoubtable Jim Scott on the ball at the windward end, and three mark-laying RIBs.

The RO and team managed to pack in ten races for each fleet on the Saturday with the yachts all well controlled and tight in the courses, and still getting back into the marina by 4:30pm, and only one protesting boat which was very quickly settled by the protest committee using the RYA Arbitration method.

Sunday had an overcast sky and threats of rain, but fortunately the rain stayed off for the day. The forecasted wind of 19-27 knots did not appear and the wind was relatively steady in speed at 18 knots, again with gusts. However, it was quite variable in direction necessitating resetting the course three times during the 6 races series. The sixth and last race of the day started at 14:00, with no protests that day.

The overall worthy winners of the Sprints Trophy, Monarch from Royal Tay YC tied on points with More T Vicar from Royal Yorkshire YC. Therefore, the RYA Series tie break rule came into play with the split only occurring at third places. Tsunami 2 from PEYC, the previous sprints winners, took third place.

In the second fleet, Jetstream were overall winner, with their discard remarkably being a first place!

All teams enjoyed the weekend's sport and there was much talk in the clubhouse about another Sprints Event in 2027.

Thanks to the Sponsors for their support - Stewart Brewing, Port Edgar Marina, Sea Cadets Port Edgar Boat Station, and Edinburgh Watersports Centre/Edinburgh Marine Academy.

Thanks too to the many club volunteers who made this event a great success.

ASTO Small Ships Challenge

 

The Association of Sail Training Organisations (ASTO) has celebrated another successful Small Ships event which took place from 2 – 4 October in Cowes, Isle of Wight, bringing together 21 vessels, 222 young people, plus 86 volunteers and staff from across the UK for a weekend of challenge, collaboration and sail training.

Originally planned as the annual Small Ships Race, light winds across the Solent meant organisers adapted in true sailing fashion and launched the Small Ships Challenge, creating a new and engaging way for participants to test their skills on and off the water. Throughout the event, crews completed 34 tasks designed to encourage teamwork, resilience, creativity and problem solving.

Challenges ranged from identifying and photographing different vessel types and navigating to designated locations, through to practical navigation exercises flag making and creative snack platters. The revised format ensured young people experienced all the benefits of sail training while embracing the spirit of friendly competition and adventure that sits at the heart of the event.

The 2026 event saw Tectona take the Class B title, Challenger 4 win Class C1 and Bright Star take the top spot in Class C2, with crews across the fleet demonstrating outstanding determination, adaptability and teamwork throughout the weekend. A special award was also presented to the youngest crew member, 12-year-old Tilia Jackson from Tectona. Each Class winner received an Adlard Coles Reeds Nautical Almanac, kindly donated to the event. 

Kerry McMillan, CEO of ASTO, said: “The Small Ships Challenge is a brilliant example of what makes sail training so powerful. While the weather may have changed our plans, it certainly didn’t change the enthusiasm, commitment and determination shown by everyone taking part.

“The challenge encouraged young people to think creatively, work together and embrace new experiences. More importantly, it gave them the opportunity to build confidence, develop skills and create memories that will stay with them long after the event has ended. We’re incredibly proud of every young person who took part this year and grateful to the organisations, staff, volunteers and supporters who helped make such a successful weekend possible.”

First held in 2002, Small Ships Races are a longstanding fixture in ASTO’s calendar, having visited ports across the UK and Europe including Belfast, London, Dartmouth and St Peter Port with an annual event in Cowes since 2004. With at least half of crew members aged under 25, the event combines competitive sailing with the personal development opportunities at the heart of sail training.

The event also highlighted the strength of collaboration across the sail training sector, with member organisations, staff, volunteers and supporters working together to ensure participants enjoyed a safe, rewarding and memorable experience despite the change in format. 

ASTO Trustee David Snelson CB, said: “Thank you to all the crews for getting into the spirit of the event. The essence of a sail training trip is to deal with what you have in front of you, adapt your plan and make the best of it. That’s what we’ve done this weekend. It’s been great to see the energy and commitment that both trainees and boat staff have brought to the weekend and today in particular.” 

For the young people involved, the event offered an opportunity to step beyond their individual voyages and become part of a wider sail training community, connecting with other crews, learning new skills and discovering what can be achieved through teamwork, determination and adventure at sea.

As one young person sailing onboard Tall Ships Youth Trust Challenger 5 commented: “Plans can change, because today there was no wind, obviously the race was called off. And at first I was quite disappointed about that, but then I thought, well, that’s okay. I can still take out as much as I can from it. And I mean, it’s such a learning experience that things can go wrong and it’s still okay.”