Racing Squad

Still smiling after BUSA!

CUYC Racing Squad

Founded in 2003, the CUYC Racing Squad organizes and participates in an extensive program of yacht racing, comprising both training events and races. Annual highlights in the racing calendar are the BUSA Yachting Nationals and the Varsity Yacht Race in spring as well as the boys vs. girls race in early summer. We also occaisionally participate in the shorter RORC races. Training and racing mainly takes place in the Solent on chartered racer/cruisers and large keelboats such as J109s, Cork 1720s, X332s or Sunfast 37s.

Flying on a Cork 1720

Yacht racing, described by Jim Saltonstall (GB Olympic Team Coach) as 'the most challenging and complex sport in the world' combines many different aspects, from self-preparation, team-work and boathandling through to tactics and meteorology. It therefore gives excellent opportunities for improving sailing skills. By bringing together experienced yacht racers with ambitious sailors new to competitive sailing, the Racing Squad increases the yacht racing experience of CUYC members.

Concentration inside the BUSA fleet

Anyone with a reasonable level of general sailing competence may join the CUYC Racing Squad - no previous racing experience is needed. Crews are then selected from the squad for any particular event depending on personal availability, skill, and the nature of the event. Those with previous racing experience may find themselves immediately in line for selection when they join the squad, whilst others who have not raced before may need to attend some theoretical or practical training sessions.

BUSA boats

All members are recommended to try racing at some point as it is an excellent way of improving general sailing skills as well as learning about the more competitive side of yachting. Many ex-members have gone on to compete in other boats in offshore races like the Fastnet or regular inshore racing in the UK and abroad.

To join the Racing Squad, please email the Racing Officer here.