UYC VX One European Open Regatta Delivers Thrilling Three Days of Racing

Published 12:24 on 12 Aug 2026

The UYC VX One European Open Regatta returned to Ullswater for three days of exceptional racing, welcoming competitors from across the UK and as far afield as Germany to compete in one of the highlights of the VX One calendar.

Across 11 fiercely contested races, the lead changed hands several times, with close racing throughout the fleet keeping the overall standings in doubt until the final day.

The Lake District once again provided a stunning backdrop, but also tested competitors with its famously unpredictable conditions. Sunshine, rain and constantly shifting winds challenged sailors throughout the weekend, with Saturday producing the strongest breeze as gusts reached 30 knots and regularly exceeded 25 knots. Sunday began in lighter conditions before the wind steadily built again.

Despite the changing weather, Race Officer Andy Young did a magnificent job of setting excellent courses, ensuring competitive and enjoyable racing across all three days.

One of the highlights for spectators was watching the fleet's colourful spinnakers sweeping downwind with the magnificent backdrop of Helvellyna spectacular sight that perfectly showcased sailing on Ullswater.

Away from the water, competitors enjoyed delicious food in the clubhouse on both evenings, while Saturday night's after-dinner conversation with world-class sailor and coach Jon Emmett proved both entertaining and insightful. His stories from the international sailing circuit, alongside practical racing tips, were enjoyed by sailors of all experience levels.

Congratulations to our prize winners:

• 1st: Jono Shelley, crewed by Josh Moran (Ullswater Yacht Club)
• 2nd: Mike Matthews, crewed by Elspeth Keating and 14-year-old Matthew Boatman (Staunton Harold Sailing Club)
• 3rd: David Clarke, crewed by Edmund Clarke (Ullswater Yacht Club)

As competitors packed up on Sunday afternoon, there were plenty of tired but smiling faces leaving Ullswater, with many already looking forward to returning next year.

Our thanks go to every competitor who travelled to take part, and especially to the many volunteers who worked tirelessly both on and off the water. Events of this scale simply would not be possible without their commitment, enthusiasm and countless hours of support.

The full results can be found at:
https://ullswateryachtclub.org/open-events-2026/vx-one-european-open-regatta-2026-1

See also a selection of photographs from throughout the weekend, with thanks to Phil Holland for capturing the action.

Last updated 12:24 on 12 August 2026