Get Ready for an Exciting Summer of SB20 Racing in 2025!
- annazykwork
- May 20
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 17
As the days grow longer and summer approaches, we at UK SB20 Class are gearing up for a thrilling season of racing. Our calendar is packed with prestigious events, iconic venues, and vibrant social activities. There’s never been a better time to join the SB20 fleet!
Not-to-be-Missed Summer Events
Make the most of your summer on the water. Here are the events you simply cannot miss:
Royal Thames 250th Anniversary Regatta: 11th – 15th June, Cowes
Kicking off in June, the Royal Thames 250th Anniversary Regatta will genuinely celebrate keelboat sailing in the Solent. This event integrates multiple classes, incorporating their National Championships into the regatta. As a result, it is shaping up to be one of the most significant multi-class gatherings in recent years.
Hosted by one of the world’s oldest yacht clubs, the Royal Thames Yacht Club, this regatta promises exceptional racing. A vibrant shoreside programme will be based at Cowes Yacht Haven, featuring daily entertainment and a spectacular Regatta Celebration Dinner. This is more than just a regatta – it’s a chance to be part of sailing history. Don’t miss the chance to be part of it!
More details: Royal Thames Racing Website
63rd Lord Birkett Memorial Trophy: 5th - 6th July, Ullswater
If you prefer to stay North, the Birkett Trophy is ranked 8th in Yachts and Yachting’s top 50 “must-do” sailing events. Competitors will contest the Trophy over two all-class handicap races around the length of the lake—one race on Saturday and one on Sunday.
Often referred to as "The Glastonbury of Sailing," this event features mass starts with over 200 boats followed by a 14-mile course in spectacular scenery. With a vibrant festival atmosphere, it creates a memorable experience that keeps entrants returning year after year. Entry is open to monohull dinghies and keelboats less than 25 feet 6 inches overall length, with a PYN rating below 1340.
More info: Notice of Race and Registration
Open SB20 UK Nationals: 18th – 20th July, Weymouth Sailing Club
After that, we’ll host the SB20 UK National Championship at Weymouth Sailing Club, located at the iconic 2012 Olympic venue. With steady southwesterly breezes, minimal tide, and fast access to open water, Weymouth Bay provides a dream setting for high-quality, tactical racing just a short sail from the Club.
The UK SB20 Class team recently visited the club. We were impressed with the facilities, friendly atmosphere, and superb craning arrangements. The entry fee to the Nationals includes trailer storage, berthing, craned launch, and access to a lively social programme. This includes the Commodore’s Reception, Thursday night buffet, and the Saturday Class BBQ.
It has been a landmark year for the UK fleet. John Pollard’s Xcellent won the SB20 Worlds, and the team secured the Nations Cup in Singapore. This is your chance to race against the very best and experience the camaraderie of the SB20 community.
Register now: SB20 Nationals Weymouth Entry Page Notice of Race PDF
Cowes Week Grand Slam & Mini Slam: 2nd – 8th August
One of the most iconic sailing events in the world, Cowes Week, will return for its 199th edition. The SB20 UK Grand Slam runs from 2nd – 5th August, and the SB20 Cowes Week Mini Slam is from 6th – 8th August. With more starts off the legendary Royal Yacht Squadron line and a thrilling five-minute rolling sequence, this offers racing at its most exhilarating.
Beyond the action on the water, Cowes provides an unmatched atmosphere ashore. Supported by Musto, expect memorable parties, including the Opening Party on 2 August. Whether you race for the full week or drop in for a few days, Cowes Week is a summer essential.
Details and entry: Cowes Week Website
And Beyond…
After Cowes Week, several UK teams will head to Belgium for the SB20 Europeans in Ostend. This event provides a fantastic opportunity to compete internationally while showcasing a strong British contingent.
For those staying local, the summer continues with events like the Royal Southern Summer Series (20th – 21st August) and the Torbay Royal Regatta (23rd – 25th August) at our 2027 SB20 Worlds venue, the Royal Torbay Yacht Club.
Don’t Miss Out!
With momentum high and events filling quickly, we encourage all SB20 sailors to register early. Let’s make the most of this expected superb summer season. Get on the water, fly the SB20 kites downwind, and enjoy everything that UK sailing has to offer!
Click here to view all SB20 UK events 2025.
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