One Month to Go until the iconic GJW Direct Bloody Mary Pursuit Race!

The GJW Direct Bloody Mary 2025 © QMSC

Queen Mary Sailing Club (QMSC) is excited to announce the return of the legendary GJW Direct Bloody Mary Pursuit Race. Set to take place on January 11, 2025, the race is a highlight of the SailJuice Winter Series and is one of the most anticipated events on the UK sailing calendar.

The GJW Direct Bloody Mary pursuit race is renowned for its unique format and vibrant atmosphere. Next year's event, sponsored once again by insurance company GJW Direct, will be open to all non-foiling dinghy classes with a PY number equal to or lower than an International Topper, along with selected keelboat classes.

Tony Bishop, Club Secretary at QMSC, shared his excitement, saying: "The Bloody Mary on January 11th, 2025, will mark the 49th time we have hosted this iconic race. It's always a magical experience seeing hundreds of boats from over 100 sailing clubs and more than 60 classes gathering at our reservoir. The race is chaotic, frenzied, and unforgettable - it truly captures the essence of competitive sailing."

The two-and-a-half-hour race will kick off at 12:00 noon, with the slowest boat starting first, followed by progressively faster boats according to their handicap rating. The event is designed to give sailors of all levels a chance to compete in a thrilling and inclusive format.

Note - Race entry will be online only. Participants are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible. Entries close at midnight on Thursday, January 9th, 2025, so don't miss out on the opportunity to join in the excitement.

For more information, including online entry, notice of race, and sailing instructions, please visit the QMSC website at www.queenmary.org.uk/racing/bloody-mary.

Race Details

• Date: January 11, 2025
• Time: 12:00 noon (race start)
• Location: Queen Mary Sailing Club, Ashford, Middlesex
• Format: Pursuit race, with boats starting based on their PY handicap
• Online Entry Deadline: Midnight, Thursday, January 9th, 2025
• Link to enter: enter.sailracer.org/eventsites/new.asp?eventid=226008