Suffolk Yacht Harbour (SYH) has announced entries are now open for its annual Classic Regatta. Taking place from 25th – 27th June, the regatta will introduce new elements to the 2021 programme to ensure maximum racing and camaraderie for entrants and spectators.
SYH managing director Jonathan Dyke commented, “We have deliberately selected these dates, so the regatta falls after the Government’s planned timings to lift all Covid restrictions on events by 21st June. With this in mind, we are planning for a full racing and social programme to kick start the racing season in style.
“Whilst we are optimist for a fantastic return of the regatta, we are aware things may change and we will be monitoring the situation closely. If we need to alter the onshore set-up to allow for any ongoing Covid restrictions, then our large outdoor area enables us to do so easily.”
Founded in 2002, the SYH Classic Regatta is now firmly established in the UK classic yachting calendar as the largest event of its kind on the east coast. Following popular demand, this year’s regatta will include an additional race on Friday evening and for the first time is inviting classic motor yachts to attend.
SYH boatyard services director Joshua Major added, “The decision to invite classic motor yachts to join the regatta stems from Suffolk Yacht Harbour’s growing reputation for restoring Fairey Marine boats. The classic regatta is the ideal opportunity to bring together yacht owners who have a shared appreciation of traditional vessels.”
Friday’s race is an optional, informal addition to the weekend and will take place in the River Orwell. This race will have separate prizes to the overall regatta. A three-race series takes place on Saturday and Sunday in Dovercourt Bay, Harwich Harbour, and the Orwell and Stour estuaries. On-the-water action is complemented by socialising in the onsite Haven Ports Yacht Club lightship, with a regatta party and live band on Saturday evening.
Owner of Spirit 52 Flight of Ufford and founder of Spirit Yachts, Sean McMillan said, “There is something quite magical about racing on the east coast. The welcome here is quite extraordinary; Jonathan puts so much effort into the whole thing. It’s run on a very Corinthian spirit and the manners on the racetrack are rather wonderful. It’s at that fantastic time of year when everyone is full of enthusiasm for the season to come; I wouldn’t miss it.”
Suffolk Yacht Harbour has a long association with classic yachts, going back to Stella designer Kim Holman (one of the harbour’s original founding directors). With classic yacht maintenance facilities in the workshops and the Classic Marine chandlery onsite, SYH is well-equipped to assist classic yacht owners in the lead up to, during and after the regatta.
The regatta is the largest event of its kind for classic yachts on the east coast and attracts a fleet of both local and visiting sailors from as far afield as the Channel Islands. The event welcomes everyone from keen racers to social sailors to compete in the fast, slow and Stella classes.
Entry criteria for the regatta requires yachts to be either pre-1970 design of traditional construction, Bermuda or gaff rigged and built of wood or steel. Modern classic yachts with wooden or steel hulls are also welcome.
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