Edinburgh Cup Returns to Falmouth
by Emma York 22 Jun 2022 17:08 BST
3-8 July 2022
The Royal couple on board Bluebottle in 1949 © Royal Collection image from the Britannia Trust
Sailors, supporters and spectators are expected in Falmouth from 3rd - 8th July 2022 for the British Dragon Association South western Championship and Edinburgh Cup, the culmination of a week of elite-level racing over coastal courses.
Among the boats entered is the historic sailing yacht Bluebottle which was given to the then Princess Elizabeth and her new husband as a gift for their wedding in 1947. This Platinum Jubilee year would have been the couple's 75th wedding anniversary. Former Navy Officer Prince Philip was a keen sailor and passed on his love of the sea to his daughter Princess Anne. Bluebottle won a bronze medal at the Melbourne Olympic Games, and still sails competitively despite her long heritage, thanks to a major refit for the Royal Yacht Britannia Trust.
Competitors from all over the UK, Ireland, and further afield including past World, European and National Champions, will be coming to Falmouth for a week-long series of races, starting with the South Western Championships. The event is being organised by the Royal Cornwall Yacht Club, in partnership with Falmouth Harbour, with input from sailing clubs including Flushing, Mylor and St Mawes.
Falmouth's business community has also pulled together to help get the teams to the start line, and the event has also attracted support from sponsors further afield. A wide range of industries is backing the prestigious event: St Austell Brewery, Ancasta Marine, Allspars masts and rigging, holiday letting firm Classic Cottages, Penrose sailmakers, estate agency Jonathan Cunliffe, Tregothnan Tea, Delphis Eco UK, which makes eco-friendly cleaning supplies, and Falmouth Town Council.
Race organiser Robin Taylor says the event will bring hundreds of sailors, supporters and spectators into Falmouth for an unforgettable experience. "It's been hard work but it's been incredible to see people coming together to keep Cornwall at the forefront of British sailing. Whether it's the help from all the local sailing clubs, or the interest and generosity from our sponsors, there's been a strong community drive to make this happen."