New UK race week

Royal Western Yacht Club to stage event in 2011

Plymouth’s Royal Western Yacht Club have committed to stage a new regatta, Plymouth Race Week, planned to be on the same scale as Cowes or Cork Week. As one of the UK’s premiere yacht clubs, The RWYC, with a wealth of experience and history in organising major sailing events has the added bonus of having the stunning natural arena of Plymouth Sound and the waters beyond at their disposal.

Over the years Plymouth has established itself as the home for some of the most notable ocean races including The Transat, OSTAR, The Two-handed Round Britain race and has always been the finish port for the Fastnet. However, it has never played host to a major regatta and it was with that thought in mind that the Royal Western’s Commodore, Chris Arscott, launched the ambitious plan and set the date for 7-10 July 2011.

Chris Arscott, said: “I campaign my own boat at Cowes, Cork Week and recently at the newly established Dun Laoghaire regatta. I’ve watched the latter growing, relatively quickly, into a really first class regatta. Here in Plymouth we have all the facilities to offer the same quality event in a top class sailing destination. It seemed a natural progression to hold an event on this scale. This will be a fantastic opportunity and will put Plymouth firmly on the map of International yachting events. It will be a great boost to maritime businesses in the area, and to the local economy as a whole.”

The race management team for the bi-annual event are already in place to oversee at least three separate courses, both inside and outside the Breakwater. Led by the race officer Mike Pearson, the smooth running of some excellent racing is guaranteed. Added to that, in recent years, the city has committed to utilise the historic Sutton Harbour for the afore mentioned events, bringing sailors and sailing into the heart of Plymouth, with much success.

Continuing that theme, a tented ‘race village’ overlooking Queen Anne’s Battery Marina and adjoining the Barbican’s shops restaurants and watering holes, will not only provide fabulous après sail, but also enhance a family friendly atmosphere. With fairs, fireworks, a jazz festival and the Red Arrows, just some of the activities already scheduled, this is going to be an unadulterated yachting extravaganza.

Supported by Sutton Harbour Group, Plymouth City Council and The Cattewater Harbour Commission the event has already generated serious interest from the many yacht classes who have been approached, including Sigma and Beneteau. Some heavyweight sponsors have also shown their intent to support what is expected to be a 400 plus boat regatta in the height of the summer season.

With the best weather, in the best waters, Plymouth Race Week is a must for every yachtsman’s diary.