Entries open for British Keelboat League at Rutland

Clubs from across the Midlands and beyond invited to #rockupandrace

25 Jul 23

Two RS21 keelboats being sailed downwind with kites up towards the shore at Rutland SC.

The British Keelboat League is heading inland to the Midlands for its next event with teams invited to #rockupandrace at Rutland Sailing Club.

Taking place over the weekend of 19-20 August 2023, up to eight teams of 4-6 crew will be competing in the club’s fleet of rigged and ready-to-go RS21s.

Peter Ward, Coordinator for the 2023 British Keelboat League, said: “It’s a fantastic opportunity for groups of friends from clubs around the region and beyond to enjoy a sociable weekend with a packed schedule of fast and fun racing.

“The top two teams from the Rutland event will also have a chance to compete in our national BKL final at Royal Southern Yacht Club in autumn, and could then qualify to represent their club and GBR in Europe with the 2024 SAILING Champions League.

“Don’t miss out. If you’re a good dinghy racing sailor, you will be able to sail the keelboats used for the BKL, and everyone who takes part tells us what a brilliant time they’ve had. If you’ve never entered as a club before, give it a go!”

Entries are now open - find out more and sign up.

Among those already entered for the Rutland event is a team from West Hoe SC in Devon, who competed in Poland this summer with the SAILING Champions League and hope to win a place in Europe again next year by competing with the BKL.

The top performing youth and all-female teams from across the BKL national series will also win a place in the British final.

The cost per team is £340 which includes boat costs for the event and a meal for four people on Saturday at the club preceded by a Pimm’s reception for all entrants.

Rutland SC Commodore Nick Neve added: "We’re looking forward to welcoming sailors and their teams to the club for a great weekend of competition and fun."

Also included in the entry fee is a chance for teams to take out the boats for a practise on the Friday with coaching support available, bookable in advance with the club.

Catering is available all weekend and participants may also book club bunk accommodation, or the camping field opposite the Rutland SC for tents, caravans, campervans/motorhomes.

Find out more about the British Keelboat League or enter now for the Rutland event. The closing date for entries is 23:59 on 16 August 2023.