National Firefly Association Triumphs at West Lancashire Yacht Club's 24-Hour Dinghy Race 2025
by Beate Westlake 22 Sep 2025 11:58 BST
13-14 September 2025
Southport's iconic 24-Hour Dinghy Race came to a thrilling conclusion, with the National Firefly Association taking the coveted trophy after 24 hours of relentless, round-the-clock racing on Marine Lake.
Hosted by West Lancashire Yacht Club (WLYC) on 13-14 September 2024, the event once again drew teams from across the UK for a unique test of endurance, teamwork, and strategy. Crews sailed through shifting winds and darkness, cheered on by enthusiastic spectators along the Southport Promenade.
After a fiercely contested race, the final results were:
1st Place: National Firefly Association
2nd Place: Southampton University Sailing Club
3rd Place: Budworth Sailing Club
The race was officially opened on Saturday by Mayor of Sefton, Cllr June Burns, who also presented the winners' trophy on Sunday. "The 24-Hour Race is more than just a sporting competition—it's a celebration of community spirit," she said. "My congratulations go to the winners and every team that took part, but also to the volunteers whose hard work and enthusiasm keep this Southport tradition alive year after year."
WLYC Commodore Richard Westlake echoed this sentiment: "Congratulations to the National Firefly Association on a well-deserved victory! Beyond the racing itself, what makes the 24-Hour Race unique is the community effort behind it. From safety crews on the water, to race officials, local businesses, and families helping throughout the weekend—every volunteer plays a vital role."
Alongside the racing, a successful charity raffle raised funds to support WLYC's award-winning junior sailing development programme, which helps open the sport to more young people in the Southport area.
A Southport Tradition Since 1967
First held nearly six decades ago, the 24-Hour Race has become a cornerstone of the UK dinghy sailing calendar and a much-loved local spectacle. With its post-pandemic momentum now re-established, this year's event saw packed crowds lining the lake to watch crews battle fatigue, strategy, and the elements right through to Sunday morning.
With 60+ entries, 800+ participants, 200+ volunteers from across the sailing community putting in 300+ shifts, the event today is a model of the collaborative spirit which imbues our sport. Volunteers from the competing clubs play a central role in making the race a sustainable success, from safety crews and stewards to local businesses lending a helping hand.
WLYC works closely with Sefton Council, fellow yacht clubs, the Royal Yachting Association, and headline sponsor International, with additional support from Marine Supplies Direct, Rooster, Harken, Allen Brothers, SailPics, TEU, and Ocean Plaza. Their combined efforts ensure the event runs smoothly while remaining a celebration of teamwork, endurance, and community.
Looking to 2026
WLYC is already planning for next year's event, taking place 12-13 September 2026, and is encouraging even more sailors, volunteers, and visitors to take part.