Match Racing
Match Racing in many ways is the simplest form of racing - one on one competition in any one design boat
The reality is an extremely challenging duel that test, tactics, strategy, rules knowledge and application, boat handling and teamwork.
Rock up and race! No need to own your own boat, at match racing events, a set of matched boats are provided, allowing teams to swap in and out throughout the day.
RYA Match Racing Events
The RYA run a Schools Championship, Youth Championship (U23 & U19), Women’s Championship and the RYA National Match Racing Championship. Several clubs also run match racing events, where the winners are invited to the RYA Championship event in October.
The RYA National Match Racing Championship 2026 will be run on the 16-18th October at Queen Mary Sailing Club in Sonars. GBR and International teams are welcome to request an invitation to the event by the 16th July.
All events are on the RYA Calendar.
To enter you need
- Minimum - club racing experience (dinghies or keelboats)
- Some rules knowledge
- A team of like minded sailors - 3 to 5 sailors depending upon the boats/weight requirements.
- To be registered with a World Sailing ID.
- For RYA events - Before entering to read the Damage Addendum and Damage charge guidance documents.
If you are new to match racing, on the water coaching is provided at the Youths and Women’s events.
RYA racing events
Explore all upcoming RYA racing events including Match racing and other Sailing events.
Please note event entry is online only
Each event will require a new login (this can be the same one), as the entry system does not share information between events. Crews are also required to enter online once the skipper has had their entry accepted.
Any sailors under the age of 18 are required to ask their parent/guardian to complete the consent form.
The Championship Grand Final is for British teams by invitation only. Wildcards - see NOR for details for how to apply.
