Entry opens for British Classic Week 2021

The British Classic Yacht Club (BCYC) has announced entry applications are open for its annual British Classic Week regatta in Cowes. Taking place from 17th to 24th July, the 19th edition of the event will combine competitive racing with camaraderie and is set to be a celebration of classic yachts.

Criteria for entry is IRC classic yachts of 24ft and over or modern classic, Spirit of Tradition yachts of either wood or steel construction. Fast-paced racing for classes 1-4 and a 6mR class will take place in the challenging tidal waters of the Solent against the historic, picturesque backdrop of the Isle of Wight.

Race management organised by the Royal Yacht Squadron will see beautifully maintained classic yachts battle it out over a six-race series of varied courses, including round-the-cans races and the 30nm Nab Tower Race that takes in the iconic Horse Sand and No Mans Land Forts.

“After an extremely challenging year, we are very much looking forward to hosting British Classic Week this summer,” says BCYC commodore Jonathan Dyke. “With a renewed appreciation for yachting in home waters and a lack of racing opportunities over the past year, we know classic yacht owners are keen to be back out on the water.”

Keen spectators will be able to enjoy fantastic views of the racing from the coastal paths and secluded beaches along the north shore of the Isle of Wight. Line starts and finishes in front of the famous Royal Yacht Squadron allow shore-based crowds to get close to the action on the water.

This year’s British Classic Week will see a bumper line-up of event support in the wake of Panerai’s long-term partnership with the event. Sponsors include OneSails, Spirit Yachts and BRIG RIBs, with event support from Suffolk Yacht Harbour and traditional chandlery Classic Marine. Classic Boat magazine remains the regatta’s media partner.

Also new for British Classic Week 2021 is a partnership with the Tall Ships Youth Trust. As the regatta’s official charity partner, the Tall Ships Youth Trust will be integrated into all aspects of the week, from sailing to socialising and fundraising.

“This year’s social programme remains as vibrant as ever, with a balance of casual and more formal events,” says Dyke. “Whilst we are mindful of covid and we will adhere to any restrictions in place at the time, we are lucky that the mostly outdoor nature of the event means we can be flexible with the arrangements. We remain optimistic and we have planned a dynamic week full of “old favourites” and fun new additions.”

Image courtesy of Chris Brown.