2026 Optimist Open at Warsash Sailing Club
by Liz Robinson 30 Jun 09:58 BST
28 June 2026
Coached Regatta - 2026 Warsash Optimist Open © Martin Livingston
More than 80 sailors arrived bright and early to Warsash Sailing Club for the 2026 Warsash Optimist Open, powered by West Hill Park School, enjoying a memorable day of close racing in classic Solent conditions.
After the record-breaking heatwave during the week, lower temperatures and a constant 15-20 knot breeze meant a promising start to racing on Sunday.
Coached Regatta Fleet
The Coached Regatta Fleet's race area was right in front of the clubhouse in Kipper Pond.
Many sailors were experiencing racing for the first time, in windier conditions then they are used too. Plenty of encouragement (in the form of Haribos) and coaching to help them round the race track and completing races.
Racing Regatta Fleet
With 32 entries and a 3 hour high-water window, being able to start racing on time was key.
5 races were completed, with the wind steadily increasing the whole time. This was challenging for the less experienced sailors and also provided some tight racing at the top end of the fleet.
Main Fleet
This fleet faced some tough conditions. sailing out in Southampton Water,through the famous Solent chop, with sunshine, breeze and plenty of waves making for exciting racing all the way to the finish. This resulted in Tom Keegan retaining the winner's trophy for the second year in a row.
The event was made possible through the support of title sponsor West Hill Park School, alongside event partner Xtremity Sports, whose continued backing helped deliver another successful Optimist open meeting at Warsash.
As ever, the event relied on the tremendous efforts of Warsash Sailing Club's volunteer team:. From race management, Peter Knight (Principle Race Officer - Main), Ben Coombes-Own (Race Officer - Racing Regatta) and Martin Livingston (Race Officer - Coached Regatta). Safety Leads, James Ward (Main), Mark Robinson (Racing Regatta) and Russell Tapley (Coached Regatta)
The many volunteers working throughout the day to provide competitors and visiting families with a warm Warsash welcome.
Sailors and families finished the day with an amazing BBQ, cold beverage(s) and lots of ice cream.
We look forward to welcoming the fleet back to Warsash next year!
Full results can be found here.