Lining up for the Wilson

Latest developments for West Kirby's 2010 team racing extravaganza

The dates have been set and entries are now being invited for the 2010 British Open Team Racing Championship for the Wilson Trophy, hosted by West Kirby Sailing Club. Racing will take place over three days, from 7 to 9 May, 2010.

Acknowledged internationally as the premier team racing competition, 2010's event is expected to draw top entries from around the UK, and as far afield as Ireland, USA and Japan. Competition will be cut-throat, and with a number of Olympic and World Champion sailors rumoured to be making an appearance. The host club is expected to field three teams and will be fiercely defending their 2009 trophy win, promising a true showcase of sportsmanship and skill.

The organisers’ decision to continue with a three day format was taken following overwhelming feedback from competitors and spectators at 2009’s event, when the traditional two day format was extended to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Wilson Trophy. 2009’s anniversary event attracted over 250 competitors with more than 5000 spectators and 300 organisers and officials, and with plans now finalised the momentum looks set to continue for 2010.

Commodore of West Kirby Sailing Club, Kay Johnson, comments: "West Kirby Sailing Club has always been proud to host the Wilson Trophy, and we’re looking forward to welcoming competitors and spectators once again in 2010. 2009 was the most successful Wilson Trophy event so far, and we’re determined to build on that success for 2010. We believe that the extended three day format will maximise competitors’ enjoyment and increase spectator opportunities, and we’re excited about our decision for 2010."



As a competition, the Wilson Trophy is unparalleled in the sailing world. Over 300 races will be organised throughout the three days, run entirely by volunteers from West Kirby Sailing Club. Thanks to the generosity of the event sponsors, the club supplies six colour-coded flights of matched Firefly dinghies, in which teams of six battle it out in a Swiss league format. Sunday afternoon sees the crowds surge towards the marine lake viewing areas to watch the all important final rounds, where the top teams will sail for victory just metres away from spectators. With step by step commentary explaining the tense tactical dog fights, the event provides a unique spectator experience.

For competitors, the Wilson Trophy represents the pinnacle of the team racing calendar. But the competition begins long before they even get on the water! Such is the popularity of the event, that the organisers are expecting the 2010 event entry list to be over-subscribed. Interested teams are therefore encouraged to register as soon as possible via the online entry at www.wilsontrophy.co.uk , or to contact Jackie Rickman via secretary@wilsontrophy.co.uk or 07970 720161for more details.

New for 2010, teams will have the opportunity to book practice sessions on the water at West Kirby’s Marine Lake prior to racing commencing on Friday. This opportunity could prove an invaluable incentive to teams heading to the event for the first time, offering a step up the ladder against some of the more established favourites expected to perform.