Dinghy Racing at SYC Starcross

Dinghy racing at SYC Starcross is a lively and thriving event that attracts sailing enthusiasts from all over the southwest. Every Sunday and on Wednesday evenings during the summer, the club comes alive with the excitement of competitive racing. Located on the Exe river, a beautiful tidal estuary, the race start times are strategically adjusted to make the most of the tides, usually racing near high water with one or two races per day.

At SYC Starcross, there is a fantastic selection of popular classes available for racing. The Solo, Laser/ILCA, Merlin Rocket, RS400, and Hurricane SX classes see enthusiastic participation every weekend. Additionally, the club regularly races other classes such as B14, D-Zero, Hornet, Finn, Phantom, RS Aero, and RS200. They have an extensive race program that includes five long race series throughout the year, such as Spring, Evening, Summer, Autumn, and Frostbite. Approximately half of the races in each series count towards the overall standings. On top of the long series, there are shorter race series scheduled over the Easter and Christmas holidays, as well as individual trophy races and pursuit races held throughout the year.

To set the racecourses, SYC Starcross uses a combination of estuary navigation buoys and inflatable marks. Competitors are signaled the courses from the course board situated on the east side of the 'race box.' On Sundays, windward/leeward courses are set for the Fast Asymmetric and Multihull fleets, while Fast and Slow Handicap fleets navigate more traditional courses with reaches and runs. Wednesday evening racing follows traditional estuary courses for all fleets.

SYC Starcross takes pride in its recently refurbished Race Box, which facilitates efficient race and results management. Equipped with a light-based signaling system, automated timekeeping and results updating, electronic sign-on for competitors, and a finish-line video monitoring system with replay capabilities, the club ensures accurate times and placings. The race results, along with updates to the relevant series results, are usually posted on the website shortly after the last boat crosses the finish line.

Whether you're a beginner or a junior, SYC Starcross extends a warm welcome to all. The club has a friendly and inclusive atmosphere, offering assistance to beginners in boat setup, understanding tidal flows, navigating sandbanks, and improving sailing skills. With a fleet of three safety boats, they provide support and protection to competitors in all weather conditions.

For those interested in learning more about the exciting dinghy racing activities at SYC Starcross, feel free to reach out to the Sailing Secretary. Located near Starcross on the west bank of the Exe Estuary in Devon, this thriving sailing club is ready to bring out the sailor in you.