Entries are now open to the events! Join us for a festival of sailing held at multiple venues across the country over two weekends. The events are catered to young sailors of all abilities from those just starting out to seasoned racers.
Crucially, young sailors are supported and nurtured to help them better themselves on and off the water and progress their sailing skills.
Over the course of the weekends of June 10 and 11, and June 17 and 18, hundreds of children will descend on 10 sailing clubs. Right the way from Royal Torbay Yacht Club in Devon to Bassenthwaite Sailing Club in the Lake District.
The festivities kick off with three regattas for junior windsurfers at Datchet Sailing Club, Glossop Sailing Club and Bristol Corinthian Yacht Club.
The following weekend will see dinghy racers head to events at Rutland SC, Grafham Water Sailing Club, Queen Mary Sailing Club, Bassenthwaite SC, Oxford Sailing Club and Royal Torbay YC.
The RYA Home Countries will hold their own regattas. RYA Scotland’s event will take place over June 17 and 18 at Loch Tummel Sailing Club, while RYA Cymru Wales’ championships are being held at Dale Yacht Club in Milford Haven on the same dates. RYA Northern Ireland will host their championships at Ballyholme Yacht Club in Bangor on September 9 and 10.
The Regional Junior Championships features three fleets:
- Championship Fleet for more experienced racers
- Coached Regatta Fleet for those wanting to get their first taste of racing
- Rookie Fleet supported by the RYA’s Onboard programme for children who are new to sailing.
Clubs are encouraged to bring as many sailors as possible – with prizes handed out for the most sailors from one club.
The events also provide opportunities for clubs, sailors, and parents to meet the RYA’s Regional Performance Managers and Regional Development Officers to talk about how young sailors can be best supported.
Chris Atherton, the RYA’s National Performance Manager, said: “The Regional Junior Championships are a true celebration of junior sailing.
“There really is something for everyone, whether you’re an experienced racer or just starting to get to grips with sailing.
“We can’t wait to see everyone this summer for what we’re sure will be another great set of regattas.”
Find out more about the 2023 Regional Junior Championships.