RYA Regional Junior Championships move to early summer 2022

In a change from its usual end-of-summer schedule, the Regional Junior Championships will be moving to early summer as of 2022. It is hoped this decision will result in better weather for competitors, and longer evenings for social activities once racing has finished, says the RYA.

The 2021 RYA Regional Junior Championships was held earlier in September across two weekends at multiple venues across the country and has been hailed an overriding success after more than 1,200 youngsters took to the water over two weekends of racing.

Intended to be a festival of racing, the RYA Regional Junior Championships consisted of 11 regattas across the country catering for young sailors of all abilities from those just starting out to seasoned racers.

The Regional Junior Championships featured three fleets: the Championship Fleet for more experienced racers, the Coached Regatta Fleet for those wanting to get their first taste of racing, and the OnBoard Fun Fleet for children who are new to racing. The emphasis of the annual event is to promote fun, high-quality regional racing.

Fresh from Tokyo 2020, Team GB athletes Saskia Tidey, Alison Young, Tom Squires and Emma Wilson made guest appearances to inspire the young sailors as well as take on prize-giving duties.

During October 2021, the RYA is running a double points commission initiative for participating clubs.

Chris Atherton, the RYA’s national performance manager, says: “The Regional Junior Championships have a rich history and are much-loved by junior sailors around the country.

“It’s fantastic to shine a spotlight on regional racing across the UK and really support our young sailors in their development as racers. We can’t wait for the next two weekends, which promise plenty of great racing and lots of fun.”