Sailors from across the Island will be gathering in the Royal Bay of Grouville in two weeks’ time for the Jersey Electricity Gorey Regatta.
Established in 1857, the event is one of the oldest regattas in the world and an integral part of Jersey’s maritime culture. Due to tidal restraints it is taking place slightly earlier this year, over the weekend of 27/28 May.
The 166th regatta has a new sponsor, Jersey Electricity, opening up a fresh chapter in the story of an event that gives sailors of all ages the opportunity to compete in one of the most picturesque locations in the British Isles.
Attracting entries from St Catherine’s Sailing Club, St Helier Yacht Club and the Royal Channel Islands Yacht Club as well as the host port, the regatta will feature races for dinghies, cruising and racing yachts, sports catamarans, dayboats and windsurfers.
The social events are a popular aspect of what will be a busy weekend including a BBQ on the beach on the Saturday night and a prize-giving ceremony at the Old Bank House in Gorey Village on the Sunday.
It is hoped that yachtsmen from the other Channel Islands and France may be taking part, competing against the local crews for the numerous trophies up for grabs.
‘Thanks to the support from our new title sponsor Jersey Electricity we are once again able to offer a full programme of sailing and social events,’ said Gorey Regatta Association Captain Justin Horton.
‘The BBQ and prize-giving ceremony are always very popular and with fingers crossed for good weather we look set for a memorable weekend.’
For further information and entry details log on to the association website, www.goreyregatta.org, or follow the regatta on Facebook where you can find photos and news updates.
The closing date for entries is Wednesday 24 May.