Have you ever won the Birkett?
by Sue Giles 12 Jan 2012 09:26 GMT
7-8 July 2012
The start of the 1991 Lord Birkett Trophy © Sue Giles
Ullswater Yacht Club is searching for past winners of its most prestigious event, the Lord Birkett Memorial Trophy.
The club is planning a celebration weekend on July 7 and 8 when the 50th Lord Birkett Trophy event is held.
The North’s most popular long distance race has become a ‘must-do’ event for sailors from all over the country.
Some are pursuing the quest of the Holy Grail of a Birkett win, others just enjoy the unique atmosphere of the event which involves more than 200 competitors in a wide range of boats, from Toppers to performance skiffs and cruisers, racing the full length of the lake and back on both days.
The event was first held in 1963 to commemorate the speech by Lord Norman Birkett which persuaded the House of Lords not to allow Ullswater to become a reservoir, thus saving the beautiful lake for all to enjoy.
For the 50th Birkett, the club is planning a range of events and activities and there will be special prizes and goodies including a 50th Birkett T-shirt and a History of the Birkett publication.
Past winners will be invited to join in the celebration weekend and will be honoured for their achievements.
If you’ve won the Birkett, the club would like to hear from you. Contact Sue Giles on
More details on www.ullswateryachtclub.org