CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS 2026

CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS 2026 

The Club Championships, is open to all members of OSC; Sailing a boat or board with a recognised 'Portsmouth Handicap'.

The format of the racing is two Pursuit races, one in the morning starting at 11:00hrs and the second race in the afternoon, not starting before 13:30. Points will be awarded in finishing order and the results for both races combined to find a winner. There are two prizes, a cup for the overall winner and the 'David Start Trophy' for the winner of the last race.

If you are not familiar with a pursuit race; This type of sailing race has boats starting off on a staggered start times based on their handicap; which is determined by their RYA Portsmouth Number or PY. {A copy of the main class PY's will be displayed on the club notice board for entrants}. The idea is that all boats should theoretically finish at the same time, as the handicap compensates for differences in boat speed.

Slower boats start first, followed by the faster boats at intervals.

The race normally lasts for about 80 minutes and boat positions are recorded at the end of this time. This is a real test of sailing skill and strategy, with a little luck from the wind. It makes a fun day sailing with lunch in between races, and is a good way to meet new people and sail together.

The start and finish line is defined by a line from the Race Committee boat and a dhan buoy with a flag on it. Please make sure you read the Sailing Instructions and Notice of Race for the Club Championships. 

Joining in with racing.

If you want to race all competitors are required to sign a 'Declaration Form' before racing, make sure you sign the declaration sheet by the Club Notice Board with your name and sail number before you launch. If you retire during a race please indicate this on the declaration sheet when you get ashore to inform the Race team.

Anyone can join in the club racing; its a great way to improve your sailing skills as well as competing with like-minded members. There are plenty of people on the beach to provide help and advice or you can contact the relevant Fleet Captain for more information.

Providing the wind strength is within the 20mph limit and the gusts don't exceed 25mph, borrow a club boat and join in with the racing.

To book a club boat click here

Last updated 3:52pm on 27 March 2026