Contessa 32 Nationals - Close Racing in a Challenging Solent

Published 19:28 on 8 Oct 2026

The Contessa 32 Nationals returned to Royal Lymington Yacht Club, the birthplace of the class, for a memorable championship featuring strong winds, shifting conditions and exceptionally close racing. Hosted over a planned seven-race series, competitors experienced everything from fresh westerlies and demanding spinnaker runs to a storm-forced lay day and tactical north-western shifts on the final day.

Friday's racing produced wins for Merak II and Drumbeat, while Saturday's racing was wisely abandoned as forecast winds reached 30 knots. The fleet then enjoyed the hospitality of Royal Lymington Yacht Club before returning on Sunday for three highly competitive races. Race wins were shared between Jemima, Gigi and Concerto, underlining the depth of competition throughout the fleet.

Overall honours went to Drumbeat, with Merak II second and Concerto third. Remarkably, six points separated the top six boats and five different yachts won races during the series, highlighting the class's reputation for close one-design racing.

The championship also welcomed new owners and younger sailors to the fleet, including several teenage crew members, continuing the class's commitment to accessible and competitive racing. The fleet extends its thanks to the Royal Lymington Yacht Club team for delivering an outstanding event in demanding conditions. There was a terrific pontoon party hosted by Colemere with super "Party Bags" - as shown.

With members active in offshore, coastal and one-design competition throughout the season, the class now looks ahead to another exciting year of racing in 2027.

Last updated 19:48 on 8 October 2026