Torbay combines forces

New end of August regatta for dinghies and yachts on England's Riviera

Entries are now open online for the first Ocean BMW Torbay Week, the major new combined sailing regatta taking place in August in South Devon. The regatta combines the existing three Torbay regattas – Brixham, Paignton and Royal Torbay – and instead the clubs, together with Babbacombe Corinthian Sailing Club, will combine their extensive expertise and resources to host the new regatta, taking place from Friday 22 August to Wednesday 27th.

Tim Whitehead acting Torbat Week Director commented: “We have received much valued feedback from competitors and have identified and incorporated what sailors have asked us for.

“We recognise crews do sometimes struggle to take time off work so we have created the three day championship over the Bank Holiday weekend specifically for this reason together with weekday events in which family, reserve or corporate crews can take part.”

Racing will take place for all classes of yachts, sportsboats and dinghies and there will be a full programme of shore based entertainment and activities.

Whitehead added: “We have a fantastic tradition in Torbay for running good competitive racing, dating back to 1948 when the Bay was chosen to host the sailing Olympics.

“Each of the four clubs has their own specialisms and by working together we can put on an event everyone will remember and enjoy and want to return to.”

The racing will focus on a three day championship with varied racing from short windward leeward courses to longer coastal racing.

The week will also incorporate the traditional RNLI pursuit race which has been a favourite for decades in Brixham, corporate and team racing and it will conclude with the long-established Passage Race which taking the yachts to Dartmouth Regatta.

A reduced price applies for entries received before August 20 of £70 for an IRC yacht and £30 for a dinghy. There will also be free berthing at town moorings and free launching for any dinghies taking part.

Further details on Ocean BMW Torbay Week can be found on the event website at http://www.torbayweek.co.uk where entries can be made online.