Scarborough Yacht Club deliver outstanding weekend of Yorkshire Cup sailing action
The 2026 Yorkshire Cup, hosted by Scarborough Yacht Club and proudly sponsored by Wold Top Brewery, delivered an outstanding weekend of competitive sailing, with near-perfect conditions and a strong fleet of 17 boats competing in the season’s first major regatta.
Sailors were treated to what many described as “champagne sailing,” with steady 15–20 knot winds, sunshine, and tightly contested racing across four races held over two days.
Despite early forecasts predicting light airs, the fresh breeze created dynamic conditions that saw crews making last-minute tactical decisions, including headsail changes before racing commenced.
Race management was led by RYA Race Officer Imogen Gibb, supported by Don from Rutland Water Sailing Club.
The introduction of new X-course layouts, incorporating extra marks positioned around Scarborough’s North and South Bays which gave our race officer plenty of options and the new courses kept the fleet on their toes.
The event’s success was made possible through the continued support of sponsors.
Organisers extended their thanks to Wold Top Brewery, a fantastic local brewery built on sustainability and strong family values. Thanks also to Fusion Resources, Whitby Web Design, Fred Tiles Photography, and Scarborough Speedboat Rides. Their contributions ensured a fantastic regatta both on the water and ashore. Organisers also paid tribute to the club’s Sailing and Social Committees, whose efforts in race coordination, hospitality, and catering created a welcoming and professional environment both on and off the race course.
Competition on the water was exceptionally close, with many races decided by mere seconds on YTC corrected time handicaps, highlighting the high standard of racing across the fleet.
Taking overall victory was Firebird, a hunter Impala, delivering a dominant and consistent performance with a scoreline of 1st, 2nd, 1st, 1st.
The team, with guest sailors from Tees and Hartlepool Yacht Club, included members of the renowned 707 Sharky crew, alongside regular skipper Jimmy Cliff with his crew Mike Turner and Dave Cliff.
Notably, Jimmy secured back-to-back Yorkshire Cup successes, having also won the 2025 edition aboard the 707 Racehorse last year.
Strong performances were also recorded by Goodbye Micky Mouse, a Sonata skippered by David Podmore, and the Formula 28 Jimmy Cricket, helmed by Robin Grey.
Impressively, the latter team achieved consistent front-of-fleet finishes in only their second outing in thier new boat, marking them as serious contenders for the season ahead.
With exceptional sailing conditions, competitive racing, and strong community spirit, the 2026 Yorkshire Cup has set a high benchmark for the racing season to come.