Entries open for the 80th Merlin Rocket Nationals
by Merlin Rocket Owners Association 10 Mar 10:06 GMT
22-28 August 2026
The Merlin Rocket class heads into its 80th anniversary with very modern technology © Alex Pausey
Entries for the 80th Merlin Rocket Aspire National Championships are NOW OPEN.
Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy will host the Merlin Rocket Class from Saturday 22nd to Friday 28th August 2026 for six days of racing, nine races will seek to find our 80th National Champions.
There's going to be plenty of action on and off the water. With the schedule of racing moved around to [hopefully] enable the Crew's Race to take place. What Went Well is back, plus Helen and Geoff Kimber have an action-packed fun filled social programme including fancy dress, discos, paella, dancing, golf plus more.
Paul Dean's Buddy Bonaza is also making a return; you have got to be there to understand the joy this brings to the fleet.
The battles will continue throughout the fleet. There is one start line with multiple battles happening for gold, silver and bronze fleet victories.
There is a class subsidised entry for boats where both the helm and crew are under 25, and all entries include two evenings with food, plus snacks when the sailors come ashore. The class has boats available to loan and can help with a crew matching service.
Who will secure their entry on the start line in the Champions of Champions race at Upper Thames Sailing Club on Saturday 5th September and be able to have a gold Merlin Rocket emblem on their mainsail?
More news on sponsors coming soon.
You've got to hoist the sails to have a shot at the silverware!
Enter at: portal.merlinrocket.co.uk/event/weymouth-and-portland-national-sailing-academy-national-championships