The 2026 sailing season officially opened in Bangor Bay on Belfast Lough on 2 May with ‘Opening Day’ races hosted by Royal Ulster Yacht Club and Ballyholme Yacht Club. Racing at Royal Ulster Yacht Club featured a revised format, starting from a RIB before competitors sailed to a windward mark and on to the newly refurbished Battery.
A steady southerly breeze allowed race officials to set a series of windward-leeward laps of approximately one mile. In Class 1, a close contest developed between Adrian Allen’s Succession and Mike Browne’s Victric 3, with positions changing at each mark. Overall victory went to Shaun Douglas’ Beneteau 40.7, Game Changer.
Class 2 honours went to Paul and Emma Prentice’s Sigma 33, Squawk, which led the fleet throughout. Race organisers noted the return of experienced helm Robin Gray, steering Endeavour, owned by Nigel Hamilton and David Milne.
Squawk win: Emma Prentice takes Class 2 honours
In Class 3, new entries Sunflower and Jacada II competed against the established Impulz, helmed by Chris Johnston. Dinghy racing also drew strong participation across three classes.
The Johnstons from Impulz receiving their prize
Max Boyd won the Topper fleet, while the Ridout duo secured first place in the Fast Dinghy class in their 29er. James Moore took victory in the ILCA class.
Double win: The Ridout duo claim Fast Dinghy victory
Race officer Rory Flannigan oversaw proceedings, supported by volunteer teams. The Royal Ulster Yacht Club schedule continues with Thursday night racing from 7 May, followed by the Peel Race, Copeland Islands Race, and the club’s 160th Anniversary Regatta in June.
