OK Dinghy European Championship heads to Bruinisse
by Robert Deaves 9 Sep 16:44 BST
10-13 September 2026
Pim van Vugt, NED - day 3 of the OK Dinghy Worlds in Denmark © Robert Deaves /
www.robertdeaves.uk
The 2026 OK Dinghy Europeans is taking place at Bruinisse, The Netherlands, this week, with 61 entries from 15 countries.
Jachthaven Bruinisse is beautifully situated on the shores of the Grevelingenmeer, the largest saltwater lake in Europe. The marina is modern, well-equipped, and perfectly suited to accommodate large groups of sailors and visitors. The race-course is close to the harbour which ensures less waiting time and the launching beach is wide and easily accessible.
Chair of the Organising Committee, Thomas Wilkes, said, "When the OK class approached us to host the OK Dinghy Europeans, we saw an opportunity to combine our sailing passion with the great camaraderie of the OK class in our 'backyard'.
We chose Bruinisse as it is one of our favourite locations, combining sheltered water, a great marina and shore facilities. Our hosts at Aquavitesse and Jachthaven Bruinisse are getting used to the sight of large fleets of dinghies taking over the harbour and race areas. With all amenities close by it allows us to focus on delivering the best possible racing for this event."
Looking at likely contenders, Britain's, six-time World Champion, Nick Craig, is probably the first name to crop up, but he will be up against some very tough opposition. New World No.1 Thomas Hansson-Mild, from Sweden, is on form having just won the Nordics and the Swedish Championship, while three times European Champion, Bo Petersen, from Denmark, is also up to speed having just won another Danish Championship.
Other notable entries include former World No.1, Andy Davis, also from Britain, former New Zealand champion, Sean Cleary, Germany's Stefan Hoffmann and Ulli Kurfeld, and Canada's Ben Flower, while the home nation's Pim van Vugt, will be looking to improve on his eighth place at the World Championship in June. However, the wild card would have to be the current Europe class women's World Champion, Marie-Amandine Vandeghinste, from Belgium. There should be a very competitive and interesting week of racing ahead.
Racing is scheduled to get under way on Thursday 10 September with an eight-race series through to Sunday 13 September.