62nd Lord Birkett Memorial Trophy

 

The 62nd running of the Lord Birkett Trophy, which commemorates the saviour of Ullswater, is now less than a month away on 6th and 7th July.

The event which this year is sponsored by Magic Marine and Triggernaut Sports Glasses, comprises two all class handicap races over a 14 mile course. Each race starts at the northern end of the lake before rounding one of the islands set that are set in spectacular scenery at the southern end, before returning to Ullswater Yacht Club.

The event which is open to all monohulls less than 25ft 6ins LOA with a Portsmouth Yardstick rating below 1340, has grown to be one of the country's most popular races for boats of this type. The event's location and unique nature as well as the availability of on-site camping, catering and entertainment have all no doubt played their part in this. With less than 3 weeks to go before the closing date of 30th June (unfortunately no late entries are possible), 160 entries have already been received and tickets for Saturday's spectator steamer are almost sold out.

As well as the prestigious Birkett Trophy and prizes for the top 10 on handicap, prizes for any class with 6 or more entries provide class racing with the overall event. The Laser 2000, RS400, RS200 and Flying 15 classes currently all have more than 10 entries, while the VX One's and Albacores are not far behind. The ICLA, Enterprise, Fireball, Tempest and GP14 classes each only need one or two more entries to make the threshold.

Further information about the event and its history, entering and booking camping or motorhome spaces, can found at the event's website.