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Entries now open for Craftinsure Wayfarer Nationals

by Andrew Wilson 17 Apr 15:36 BST 26-28 June 2026
Wayfarer UK Nationals and Europeans 2022 at Arun © Arun Yacht Club

The Wayfarer Class National Championships for the past four years have been windy events - at Arun in 2022, Dabchicks in 2023, Brixham in 2024 and last year at Shoreham.

For 2026, the National Championship is going to be hosted by Grafham Water Sailing Club over three days from Friday 26th to Sunday 28th June.

The expectation is for less challenging conditions; although wind strength is never a given, the absence of waves and tides can be guaranteed!

With generous support from Craftinsure, our title sponsor, we are offering discounted entry fees for entries made by 31st May.

Early entrants will also be able to buy event polo shirts at a considerable discount.

We are also making available a two-day entry, covering the Saturday and Sunday, for those unable to get away on the Friday.

The race schedule has been designed so that, provided we complete the full schedule of races, those competing on just two days can compete for overall honours.

Grafham Water offers on-site camping and campervan facilities and all-day catering.

The Wayfarer Class has a number of very active fleets around the country, but has recently struggled to persuade many of these club sailors to travel to championships.

The intention is to broaden the appeal of its National Championship this year to encourage a larger turnout, and so that it becomes an annual gathering of racing Wayfarer sailors.

  • Grafham is within a reasonable distance from many of these active club fleets.
  • There will be a 'buddy' system to pair less experienced sailors with more experienced ones.
  • There will be 'Silver' and 'Bronze' fleets established, so everyone has something to aim for.

Entry to these Championships is now open.

More details, including the Notice of Race, can be found on the UK Wayfarer Association website here.

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