Launch of the Royal Western Yacht Club '1884 Twilight' Series
by Adrian Gray 12 Apr 2024 08:30 BST
A recent 1884 Wednesday Evening race © Jerry Lock
1825hrs, Wednesday 24th April will see the start of the first race in the all new RWYC 1884 Twilight Series.
For decades, the 1884 Series has become synonymous with the Port of Plymouth evening racing scene. Having taken note of recent challenges for fully crewed mid-week Corinthian racing throughout the sport, the Royal Western Yacht Club are pleased to announce this new format which will be no less of a challenge on the water but will provide all boats with the opportunity to compete with a fraction of the crew that would otherwise be required.
RWYC Commodore, Chris Arscott said "The '1884 Twilight series' will be open to all boats with a non-spinnaker RYA YTC rating. This will provide a level playing field for all entrants whilst only requiring the minimum amount of crew to compete fairly. There is no maximum or minimum crew limit. Sail with a small, tight team or bring your friends and family, either way the challenge will be the same. It is a great opportunity to get on the water mid-week for some great close racing without the stress of looking for such large crews but with the opportunity to bring new people along to experience what it's like to race."
The idea is not new, indeed it is worth noting that the Cruising club of Australia have been offering their Twilight Series for several years and it has been immensely popular with a huge range of boats from coastal cruising boats all the way through to TP52's. Dublin Bay has also introduced a similar offering recently. With demand for crew often being larger than the crew available, this will no doubt go on to be a very popular format.
The '1884 Twilight Series' will have a committee boat start with a long start line. The courses will be longer than average 'around the cans' courses to include the area directly south of the breakwater, weather permitting, and the finish will be on the RWYC club line. All clubs are welcome to take part and Entries can be made on the RWYC website - club racing section.