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

Wellerd takes P1 in wet and windy Crawford Pursuit at Plym Yacht Club

 

Another windy, stormy and cold Sunday, another Crawford Pursuit. 19 boats entered to kick off the season, with 16 boats making it onto the water. 2 races were planned, with the start times of the second race determined by performance in the first.

Wind slightly west of the forecast allowed the RO David Rollinson to set a windward/leeward course stretching across the front of Plymouth Hoe down the Cattewater to Drakes Island.

The ILCA 6's started first, and held the lead for a good period of the race. Several of the yachts struggled against the tide upwind in the at times squally conditions, meaning some of the slower dinghies held the advantage for a lot of the race. By 20 minutes in, the Nacra 15 and Flying Dutchman had been let out of the blocks, spending little time dispatching the tail-enders, and went chasing after the leaders, now the RS200's and ILCA of Mark Stacey, who were both led by reigning Phantom National Champion Jon Rickard. Rickard ultimately went on to take the win in race 1, followed by the FD with the 3rd taken by the Nacra 15 of George Stacey and Finn Caddy. It was great for the fleet and assembled audience to see a Nacra really moving in Plymouth Sound ahead of their World Championship in July, where we are expecting over 60 more!

While the fleet waited for the calculations for race 2, a lot of the boats had decided that it wasn't quite warm enough to be on the water for too long yet, and started withdrawing for coffee and warmth ashore. 7 boats went on to take part in the second race, where the RO had shortened the beat, making it somewhat more intense with more of a focus on manoeuvring. Gusts of 26 knots were seen over the deck, and the boats that survived were rewarded with some spicy downwind sailing, but the win ultimately went to the Aero 7 of Ben Dodwell, a return to racing in Plymouth that was pleasing to see! The whole fleet finished within about a minute. An added 10 minute delay to the start time of the Flying Dutchman of Joe Wellerd meant they were only able to take out one boat, but that was enough to take the overall win for the day by 2 points, from Cameron Gee's RS200 and the ILCA 6 of Mark Stacey. The top yacht was Claire Gribbin's Aegir. Crews headed ashore to warm up and patch of injuries, but all enjoyed the day. Thanks to all involved, especially the race management team and safety boats.

Scorpion Open at Chew Valley Lake Sailing Club

 

15 Scorpions descended on Chew Valley Lake SC for the first Silver Scorpion event of 2026. Bright sunshine made rigging up a pleasant experience and looking out across the water it was clear there was wind aplenty. Suncream was applied and the fleet set off dressed mainly for spring.

Saturday's racing was particularly notable for the number of people seen exiting their upright boats, one well known midlands based boat painter saw fit to do it twice. Not sure what the excuse was, this year there was no weed!

Sunday dawned a different day, different wind direction, same aches and pains! We got away on time after a general recall in slightly less wind which bought other members of the fleet into play in a much more stable south-westerly.

Thanks to the team at CVLSC for an excellent weekend's racing in testing conditions.

Overall Results:

Pos Sail No Helm Name Crew Name Sailing Club R1 R2 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7 Pts

1st 2022 Stevie Hall Stevie Graham Staunton Harold SC 1 1 ‑3 2 3 2 1 10

2nd 2026 Chris Martin John Tailby Bartley sc 2 2 2 3 4 ‑5 2 15

3rd 2058 Darren Roach Rach Gray Staunton harold 7 3 1 1 1 (DNC) 3 16

4th 2061 Imogen Wade Dave Wade Draycote Water Sailing Club 4 5 4 (DNC) 2 1 6 22

5th 2018 Nigel Potter Notts county 3 4 5 (DNF) 5 6 4 27

6th 2037 Richard Hanby Amy Clay ‑ 6 6 (DNC) DNC 7 4 10 49

7th 1997 Sammy Mason Will Mawbygroom Notts county sailing club 12 (DNF) 6 4 10 11 8 51

8th 2017 Lawrence Creaser Ellie Devereux Draycote Water Sailing Club 8 DNF (DNC) DNC 6 3 5 52

9th 1984 Steven McCarthy Delyth Hopkins The Chase Sailing Club 9 7 (DNC) DNC 8 9 9 58

10th 2045 Steve Hanby David Nicklin Beaver SC 5 8 (DNC) DNC 9 8 DNC 62

11th 1925 Martyn Denchfield Claire Allen grafham water sailing club 10 9 DNF (DNC) 13 10 DNF 63

12th 2025 Adam Broughton Marisa Broughton CVLSC 13 10 (DNC) DNC 11 7 7 64

13th 1919 Richard Gatehouse Lauren Wills Sidmouth 14 11 7 (DNC) 12 12 DNC 72

14th 2010 Nicola Barrett Charles Barrett SCSC 11 (DNC) DNC DNC 14 DNC DNC 89

DNQ 2065 Mark whiteman Deirdre Isted Rye harbour sailing club (DNC) DNC DNC DNC DNC DNC DNC 96

International Moth Open at Rutland Sailing Club

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Overall Results:

Pos Helm Boat Name Sail No R1 R2 R3 R4 Pts

1 Kyle Stoneham V3 5247 1 1 ‑5 1 3

2 Simon Hiscock Switch 1126 ‑3 2 1 3 6

3 Alex Adams X / GBR 490 2 ‑3 2 2 6

4 Callum Wyper Exocet 48 4 ‑5 3 4 11

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

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

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

8 Andrew Friend Cinderella 5035 9 8 ‑10 6 23

9 Thomas Garner Voodoo 4505 8 ‑9 9 7 24

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

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

Scoping out next season's Sailjuice Winter Series

 

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

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

The Participation Mission

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

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

One-Design or Handicap Racing or Both

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

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

The "Scottish Model" and Hybrid Regattas

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

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

Social Dynamics and Modern Challenges

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

Where next?

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ruffian 23 Fleet Gains UK Classic Boat Register Status

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Spence noted support from local heritage bodies recognising the class.

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

Dell Quay Sailing Club taster days

 

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

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

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

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

NSSA Double Handed Team Racing Championships at Yorkshire Dales Sailing Club

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Overall Results:

Firefly Gold

1 Derbyshire Blue

2 NEYYSA Natives

3 NEYYSA Nomads

Firefly Silver

1 Elton Sorcerers

2 NEYYSA Knights

3 Derbyshire Yellow

Firefly Bronze

1 LYS Sentinel

2 Worcestershire Youth Sailing Assoc

3 NEYYSA Dolphins

Feva Gold

1 Rutland Ospreys

2 RHS Orange

3 NEYYSA mINEOS

Feva Silver

1 Windermere Wonders

2 Elton Wizards

3 Otley Red Devils

Sanders Sails sponsors the Lightning 368 Dinghy Class Association

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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