UK 18 footer Grand Prix Update
by Tristan Hutt 25 Mar 2016 17:34 GMT
25 March 2016
18ft Skiff at the RYA Suzuki Dinghy Show © Tristan Hutt
I'm sure for many of us it feels like its been a very long winter and we are all pretty eager to get into the sailing season.
The dinghy show was a resounding success for the UK 18 foot skiff class, not only did the 18 look spectacular in the great hall but we had a brilliant team of class sailors on hand to share their experiences and provide a couple of photo opportunities for skiff sailors of the future!
UK Class secretary Tom Hill commented "It was great to see an 18 footer at the show again this year, its been a couple of years since we last came but as the class is growing we are pleased to reflect that at the show. We also saw lots of positive take up for the try an 18 day on the 2nd April which presents a unique opportunity to take a ride on one of the UK 18 footers with experienced teams".
The UK 18 footer technical team has also been working hard on the new 18 foot skiff website and I recommend that everyone take a look and use it as the go to point for more detailed information on 18 sailing in the UK and worldwide (www.international18skiff.org).
Looking ahead to a great season below are some key dates in the upcoming calendar. For non-18 sailors these events provide great spectating and some spectacular action when the breeze is up!
The events currently are as follows:
Try an 18 day:
Grafham Water (02/04/16). This will be a brilliant day for anyone who's interested in sailing 18's and joining the fleet. Several experienced teams will be on hand to provide a unique opportunity to try out 18 foot skiff sailing.
18 footer sailing is a rush like no other and luckily, there are a couple of boats for sale, should you catch the bug!
Anyone wanting to come along that hasn't already expressed interest please email
Dates for the diary:
- Euro GP 1: Ammersee. Germany (29/04/16 – 01/05/16)
- Euro GP 2: Campione. Italy (13/05/16 – 16/05/16)
- Euro GP 3: Torbole, Italy (09/05/16 – 14/05/16). European championships.
- UK GP 1: Paignton Sailing Club (16-18/07/16). National championships.
- East Coast Piers Race: Marconi Sailing Club (09 -10/07/16). This is not an official 18 foot skiff GP event but is one every confident 18 sailor should consider. It is a 30-mile long distance race with two practice races the day before.
- UK GP 2: Stone Sailing Club (20-21/08/16).
- UK GP 3: Sandbanks (02 – 04/09/16). UK Grand Prix final and European Grand Prix 4.
On behalf of the UK committee we look forward to a great season and seeing as many of you as possible.