Progress update for the Royal Western Yacht Club's 'Lonely Rock Race'

Lonely Rock Race 2020 © RWYC

For the past four months we have all been faced with a global pandemic which has rocked the world. COVID-19 continues to be in the forefront of people's minds. However, things are improving as we see signs of normality returning to our lives. With this in mind and in light of numerous questions we have had in recent days, we felt it necessary to announce today where we are with the Lonely Rock Race.

A week in the life of COVID-19 is a very long time, and it is clear that whilst there is still a way to go things are changing quickly. What with little time to plan what is a legendary historical offshore race, the club's race management team knew from the outset that putting this race together would be a huge ask. Now, with help from its members, the Royal Victoria Yacht Club and all the race sponsors, the RWYC has got this far and having taken advice from several different professional angles the club is happy to announce that it intends to continue with current arrangements.

Chris Arscott, Race Director and Commodore of the Royal Western Yacht Club said, "We remain hopeful that the Lonely Rock Race will be the first true offshore race following the COVID-19 lockdown. That said, we will only run the race provided we can conform within the guidelines of the day. We are in communication with all interested parties including the safety services, Plymouth City Council, medical professionals, port authorities from both the Solent and Plymouth and of course the competitors who have already entered. As things stand, we have measures in place which will allow us to provide the race as planned."

Arscott continued, "The conditions continue to evolve and as such we will announce the final decision on whether the Lonely Rock Race will go ahead on Sunday 2nd August, 2 weeks before the start. Should we postpone, then we will have an alternative ready to go at a later date. However, if this is not convenient to those who have entered then of course we will refund all entry fees. We want the competitors to know that we are doing what we can, but not at their expense both financially and medically."

The Royal Western Yacht Club remains cognisant of the situation we are all in. We see no reason to postpone the race at this stage. Entry closing date is next Friday 24th July. We thank those who have entered the race and welcome those who are yet to enter. There will be a 'first opportunity' to go offshore in 2020, could the Lonely Rock Race be that race?

The Notice of Race is published online at the club website, rwyc.org/lrr. COVID19 management measures are ongoing.

The entry procedure is open for all boats under 70ft in length. Prices remain subsidised thanks to our backers and sponsors.

The RWYC would like to thank our race partners for their continual support for the Lonely Rock Race. Entries close on Friday July 24th, with the understanding that any current entry price will be honoured should the race be postponed; Full refunds will of course be given should any change not be convenient for your boat to participate.

For further advice, information or questions please email and one of the race management team would be delighted to respond. For team shadowing as part of The Magenta Project, please contact