Bring on the bubbly

Taittinger Royal Solent Yacht Club Regatta to roll on from Cowes Week

As soon as the last firework of Cowes Week 2010 hits the water, the yacht racing focus in The Solent shifts west for the third edition of the Taittinger Royal Solent Yacht Club Regatta held in Yarmouth, Isle of Wight, between Friday 13 - Sunday 15 August.

Last year, 124 boats entered the regatta for three days of racing in a variety of conditions on the Western Solent and the growing popularity of this event has meant a high rate of early entries this year. In 2009, the regatta included 32 XODs, 21 Folkboats with 29 yachts entered in the Classic Cruiser Class and this year’s event promises an overall increase in fleet numbers. The enduring popularity of The Taittinger RSYC Regatta is easy to define: a diverse fleet and well-organised racing, onshore entertainment with a broad appeal and an informal atmosphere where families are encouraged, all set against the stunning backdrop of Yarmouth.

This year there will be the usual, enjoyable mix of professional sailors, keen amateurs and Corinthian yachtsmen competing in a variety of classes: Yarmouth One Design (YOD), XOD, Dragons, Folkboats, 6 Metres, Classic Swans and the Classic Cruiser Class for Bermudan or gaff-rigged yachts. The Taittinger RSYC Regatta is part of the SIRCOA IRC Series Solent Championships and a total of four IRC groups will be racing with reserved berthing for all competing yachts in Yarmouth Harbour on Friday 13th August and throughout the regatta.

The Taittinger RSYC Regatta officially opens with the Taittinger Champagne Reception on Friday evening and onshore entertainment is provided in the grounds of the Royal Solent Yacht Club each day of the event with the social highlight of the regatta, The Towers Party, taking place on Saturday night at the famous, landmark waterfront property adjacent to the RSYC. The regatta also coincides with Yarmouth Carnival Week (7th-14th August), providing additional onshore entertainment. Dick Dawson, Rear Commodore Sailing at the RSYC, is expecting a record turn-out: “We were gratified by the success of last year’s Regatta and we’re confident that this year we will once again beat recessionary tendencies with this popular, fun, family-friendly and inexpensive event,” says Dawson. “We look forward to welcoming first-timers and repeat visitors to the loveliest location in the Solent.”

The Taittinger Royal Solent Yacht Club Regatta 2010 NOR, Keelboat Entry Form, Day Boat Entry Form and the regatta’s Social Booking Form can be downloaded here