14th/15th August 2021
Keelboat League Overview
The British Keelboat League, established in 2016, was introduced with the aim of increasing participation in keelboat racing across the United Kingdom. This is delivered through the concept of concentrated inter-club team sailing, which is highly successful in other parts of Europe and across North America. Sailors compete representing their club in a series of short sprint races against teams from other clubs in their region in a qualifying round of weekend racing. The finest teams from each region then battle it out in a national final to be crowned the British Keelboat League champions.
This approach to racing provides a level playing field for all competitors and breaks down some of the historic barriers to participation in keelboat racing, as boats for the competition (RS21) are provided by the British Keelboat League. Throughout the events, sailors will alternate between the fleet of one design small keelboats (crews of 4 or 5 depending on class).
British Keelboat League Association | Interclub keelboat racing – compete against the best
The link for entries is as follows:
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Race Details
Entering this event will give teams the chance to experience racing in one of the new RS21 keelboats. The weekend will comprise of a fleet of RS21’s and up to 12 teams from local clubs competing in quickfire “sprint” races, each lasting around 15 minutes. Races will be umpired, and teams will rotate between boats in the fleet throughout the weekend of racing. By Sunday afternoon every team will have competed in approximately 12 races and the top 3 teams identified for qualification into the national final. The 2019 final will be hosted by Royal Thames Yacht Club later in the year.
This event is a great opportunity for sailors to get together and race, representing their club at an event, without the hassle of transporting your own boat around the UK. The cost of entry for this qualifier is £300 per team. All you need to do it enter your team and arrive at the club ready for racing on the Saturday morning!
Tell me more about the racing?
Each event consists of about 25 short (12-15 minute) races. Teams will do around 12 races each so there is plenty of time to watch how the others do it.
Who is it aimed at?
The BKL is open to teams from any club or association affiliated to the RYA. Competitors range from inland club sailors getting together to try something different to Olympic sailors trying something different and everyone in between.
Can my club enter more than one qualifier?
Yes, clubs may enter more than one event. Priority will be given clubs who are local or who have not already competed or qualified in previous qualifiers.
Can my club get more than one place in the final?
Yes, clubs may earn more than one place in the final through the qualification series.
Do I have to race with the same crew at different events?
No, unlike “normal” events, it is the club that qualifies, not the individuals. If you are not able to make it then your club should still send and team and you should be proud that you earned them that place.
Can we bring our support team?
Yes, friends and guests are more than welcome at the events. Racing is usually close to the shore so it can be seen and there may be opportunities to get afloat although these would be agreed with the host clubs.
I like the format but don’t want to sail, can I help?
Yes, we are always looking for people to help support events. If you fancy trying a bit of umpiring, mark laying or helping on the committee boat please email keelboatracing@rya.org.uk
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