The Royal Yorkshire Yacht Club will this weekend welcome competitors from 10 countries as they play host to the Dart 18 Catamaran World Championships. (Writes Richard Sanderson).
At their Blyth Park site, near Wilsthopre, it is expected that no less than 141 of these Dart 18 boats will be launched from the beach in a week-long challenge to select the champion boats and crew.
Events commence this Saturday (29 July, 2023) with practices – before racing begins in earnest. Two races are planned each day, the first commencing at 12.00 hrs.
An experienced international jury to oversee proceedings has also been assembled by the Club comprising yachtsmen from Belgium, Italy, Norway and GB.
Vice Commodore of the RYYC Joe Franks has been the principal motivator in bringing these championships to Bridlington and he has been ably supported by a team of sailors largely from the Blyth Park section as well as the Club secretariat.
Commented Joe: ‘It’s been a tremendous amount of work to plan for and host a world-class event and we are all hoping for great sailing conditions that will not only enthuse competitors but also showcase the Bay and town.’
The RYYC are very grateful to all the sponsors who have supported this prestigious championship in expectation that it will demonstrate the full potential of organising such an event in East Yorkshire.
Visitors have been accommodated on site at Blyth Park as well as within the town and a full programme of social events has been arranged. This will include competitors enjoying a champagne cruise on the illustrious Yorkshire Belle.
With many competing boats, this will provide unique spectating opportunities from the beach and cliffs.
And refreshments will also be available at the RYYC Blyth Park clubhouse from 11.00 hrs daily.
2023 marks a special year for the Royal Yorkshire not only due to these world championships but because it represents the 125th anniversary of the inception of the Yorkshire One Design yacht which has been based in Bridlington over the years.
This specially designed class of fixed-keel boat was first conceived in 1898 as being ideal for bay racing on this coast. Many of these splendid ‘open-decker’ craft are still sailing today from their pontoon berths in the harbour.
Celebrations of the anniversary have been planned to coincide with the RYYC Regatta Week which runs from 5th August 2023.
