E V E N TS O N T H E WAT E R
EVENTS ON THE WATER Every year Cowes hosts a diverse range of races and regattas for everyone to enjoy, from world class professional sailors to novices and spectators on shore. Here are just a few of the exciting events taking place in 2020.
WEEKENDS THROUGHOUT THE SEASON: COWES KEELBOAT RACING
JULY 9 – 12: RS ELITE INTERNATIONAL GRAND PRIX Cowes is hosting the first international regatta for the RS Elite class out of the Royal Yacht Squadron (RYS) this July. The RS Elite was introduced to Cowes when the RYS hosted the National Championships in 2012, and the local fleet has grown steadily ever since.
Tim Jeffreys
At the heart of the Cowes sailing scene is its regular weekend dayboat racing. Keelboats are accessible to all, and the events combine healthy competition with a welcoming community and vibrant social scene. It’s a great way for all ages to get into racing and there are separate starts for the various classes: International Etchells; RS Elite; International Dragon; Sonar; XOD and Daring (which are only raced in Cowes). Each class has its own unique appeal and may accommodate between 2 and 4 crew. Typically, there are two types of race: the shoreline start, where crews race around the fascinating waters of the Solent in one long race lasting up to two hours; or the Committee boat start, with two races each lasting less than an hour. Races are organised by the Cowes Clubs and Classes Association (CCCA) and hosted by various yacht clubs in Cowes. The CCCA want to make sure anyone interested in keelboat racing feels able to get involved, and you can contact ccca6@btinternet.com for more information. 14
COWES HARBOUR HANDBOOK
With an increasing worldwide presence, competitors are expected from Australia, Germany, Norway, Italy, Antigua and the USA, alongside British fleets. It’s hoped that 60 boats will line up for the start in the largest gathering of this popular keelboat to date. Racing will be of the highest quality, with several Olympic medalists and world champions competing. In addition to close quarter racing, an equally stamina-sapping social scene is planned. Cowes Harbour Commission and Cowes Yacht Haven will provide craning and mooring facilities, and a wealth of Island-sourced produce and prizes await entrants. rys.org.uk
Mike Austin
