Downs Sailing Club to host P&B NSSA National Schools Regatta 2026

NSSA National Youth Regatta 2014 at Downs SC © Sam Chick

Downs Sailing Club, in association with the Kent Schools Sailing Association (KSSA), is delighted to announce that it will host the NSSA National Schools Regatta 2026, supported by headline sponsor Pinnell & Bax.

The regatta will take place over a full week from 20th July to 24th July and is expected to welcome youth teams from across the UK. Racing will be delivered across four separate courses, supported by highly experienced race management and safety teams, with a dedicated results team in place throughout the event.

The race programme will run across four days, with fleets for Toppers, ILCA/Laser, Handicap, and a Regatta fleet specifically aimed at young sailors competing away from their home waters for the first time. This structure reflects the NSSA's continued focus on accessibility, progression and positive first experiences of multi-day regattas. There will also be a midweek special programme which will include racing for the prestigious Mount Haes Trophy in Melges 15 provided by Melges UK, the single-handed race sailed in Toppers and an Allcomers Pursuit race.

A dedicated programme will provide additional racing and participation opportunities, alongside a varied schedule designed to support both competitive sailors and those newer to national-level events.

Downs Sailing Club is an experienced host venue, having previously delivered national youth events, including regular KSSA training days, regattas and the NSSA National Schools Regatta most recently in 2014. The club operates from a challenging and rewarding stretch of open water off Deal in Kent, offering fair racing conditions and excellent spectator visibility from shore.

Shore-side facilities will include a marquee at the club to act as a central hub for teams, volunteers and organisers. Camping for teams will be available within a short walk of the club, with meal packages offered to support schools and teams travelling to the event. A full programme of evening activities is planned, including team games and a visit to the local RNLI boathouse.

The event will be supported by a strong volunteer base, reflecting Downs Sailing Club's long-standing ethos of community involvement and event delivery. A dedicated event website and supporting social media channels will provide up-to-date information, race communications and event coverage in the lead-up and during the regatta.

Downs Sailing Club

"Hosting the National Schools Regatta is something we're very proud of. It reflects our long history in Deal, our volunteers and our commitment to youth sailing. We're looking forward to welcoming visiting teams and sharing the experience with the wider community." - Phil Halldron - Commodore

As headline sponsor, P&B continues its commitment to developing the next generation of competitive sailors. Rhys Rollitt, Managing Director at P&B, said: "Youth regattas are where a sailor's lifelong passion for the sport is cemented. We've always believed in supporting sailors at every stage - from their first event to world championships. Backing the NSSA National Youth Regatta lets us invest in the future of our sport and give young sailors the opportunity to connect with the wider sailing community and develop skills that will stay with them for life."

About P&B

P&B is a UK-based sailmaker and sailing specialist with over 50 years of heritage, providing championship-winning sails, boat fittings, premium clothing, chandlery and repair services. Operating from stores in Northampton and Cowes, P&B is run by sailors for sailors, supporting everyone from grassroots club racers to world champions. Learn more at www.pinbax.com

Further information, including entry details and event updates, will be shared via the event website.