New Season, New Energy: The Scorpion Fleet Builds Momentum for 2026
by Chris Yates 31 Mar 11:04 BST
Scorpion Nationals at Penzance Day 3 © Lee Whitehead /
www.photolounge.co.uk
After a long and waterlogged winter ashore, the sails are finally being hoisted once again. At Chew Valley and beyond, the Scorpion fleet is springing back to life — and if early signs are anything to go by, 2026 is shaping up to be a standout season.
A Stand That Stole the Show
The class made a major impact at this year's Dinghy Show, delivering one of its most vibrant and engaging displays to date. At the heart of it all was a team that perfectly reflected the breadth and future of the fleet.
Experienced campaigner Rachel brought a wealth of knowledge from years on the circuit, while Fiona represented the growing cohort of sailors progressing confidently through their Scorpion journey. Alongside them, Hatty — a rising talent from the 2025 Female & Youth Project — and Sammy, a young sailor proudly representing the RYA pathway, injected fresh energy and enthusiasm.
Taking centre stage was the "all-conquering" Scorpion of Rachel and Tom Gillard, sitting alongside a beautifully restored wooden association boat that Sammy and Hatty will campaign in the 2026 season.
The result was a stand that didn't just attract attention — it held it. Visitors were drawn in by the blend of heritage and high performance, but it was the youthful energy and inclusive atmosphere that truly defined the weekend.
A Breakthrough Moment for Youth Sailing
If there is one storyline that defines the class right now, it is the rapid growth of its youth contingent.
Through the efforts of a dedicated team behind the scenes, a major step forward has been secured for the upcoming National Championships: a full week of championship racing for youth sailors at a cost of just £25.
This initiative marks a significant shift in accessibility — and the impact is already clear.
In 2023, just seven youth sailors took part. Fast forward to 2026, and that number has surged to 27, with a strong and enthusiastic group set to compete at Looe.
The line-up reflects both depth and diversity, from experienced junior helms to first-time crews — including an impressive appearance from eight-year-old Jack, already stepping onto the national stage.
Importantly, the sense of community remains central. With two crews — Nicola & Isabella from Castle Cove, and Jessica & Jasper from Hollingworth Lake — still seeking boats for the event, the fleet continues to demonstrate its collaborative spirit in ensuring everyone has the opportunity to compete.
Fleet Growth Signals a Healthy Future
Beyond the youth ranks, the wider fleet is also seeing a steady influx of new teams. Twelve crews will be joining in "new-to-them" boats this season, a clear sign of the class's accessibility and enduring appeal.
Among them are several teams targeting the 2026 Nationals at Looe, while others are already looking ahead to future championships, including Tenby 2027.
Adding a touch of nostalgia and pedigree to the line-up is the return of Mike Lennon — a multiple National Champion from the 1980s and 1990s — who is set to rejoin the fleet with characteristic enthusiasm, promising both competitiveness and camaraderie.
Looe 2026: A Regatta to Watch
All roads now lead to Looe, where anticipation is building for what could be one of the largest Scorpion National Championships in over three decades.
With 68 confirmed entries and a further 11 on standby, the event is rapidly approaching capacity. Race organisers are working hard to accommodate as many competitors as possible within the 75-boat limit — a testament to the renewed strength of the class.
Ready for the Season Ahead
As boats return to the water and crews fine-tune their rigs, there is a palpable sense of excitement across the fleet. The combination of growing youth participation, new entrants, and returning champions paints a picture of a class not just maintaining momentum — but accelerating into the future.
For many, the season begins with early events at venues like Rock, offering the first chance to shake off the winter rust. But the bigger story is clear: the Scorpion class enters 2026 in excellent health, driven by community, opportunity, and a shared passion for great racing.
The sails are up — and the season has begun.