Grassholme Cup 2026 - schedule for this weekend
Published 23:00 on 24 Aug 2026
Coming up this weekend, we have the biggest event of the year two days of sailing and socialising to include the Grassholme Cup, Round the Lake race and Summer BBQ (please remember to book tickets for the BBQ!). You don't need to be an experienced racer to take part and we encourage all to give it a go. If you'd rather just sail or paddle without the pressure, the water is open on both days with safety cover whilst racing is taking place. Read on for our planned timetable for the weekend and more about what to expect.
Schedule for the weekend
We'll try to keep to the following timings as far as is possible, but may amend the schedule if needed due to weather conditions. Listen out for further announcements on the club WhatsApp group. Timings are tight, especially on Sunday, so be warned - don't assume we will delay the start if you are late!
Race 1 - Round the Lake - 11:30
Race 2 - Grassholme Cup 1 - 14:00
Race 3 - Grassholme Cup 2 - back to back after race 2
Race 1 - Grassholme Cup 3 - 11:15
Race 2 - Grassholme Cup 4 - 13:15
Race 3 - Grassholme Cup 5 - back to back after race 2, starting sequence to begin no later than 14:15 so we are not late for the BBQ!
BBQ and prizegiving to follow immediately after Race 3.
Grassholme Cup FAQs
How will the racing work and what are the prizes?
For those new to racing, please read our Start Racing Guide to give you an idea about what to expect. Further details and links to sailing instructions can be found on the event pages linked above. We have the following prizes to compete for:
- Overall winner
- 1st junior (under 16)
- 1st female helm
- 1st senior (over 65)
- 1st beginner
- Penultimate prize (for the last-but-one boat)
If you have won one (or more!) of these and still have the trophy, please remember to polish it and bring it back to the club by Saturday 29 August so it is ready for the prizegiving.
Can I win all the prizes?
No!
If you're in first place in more than one of the main prize categories, you are only eligible to win the widest category. This means that if the overall winner is over 65, female, or under 16, then they win the overall Grassholme Cup, but not also the other relevant category trophies. However, you may, if you are lucky (or unlucky...) be eligible for additional mystery prizes to be awarded over the course of the weekend, at the discretion of the race team!
Can I borrow a club boat for racing or social sailing?
Yes, members can borrow a boat on either day. However, please let us know in advance if possible so as not to be disappointed on the day.
Can I change my crew, boat or rig during the weekend?
Yes, subject to the following rules:
- A change in helm counts as a new entry
- Changes in crew for those sailing double-handers are permitted
- For a change in rig or boat you can choose to either a) make a new entry or b) choose to score all results using the least favourable (i.e., lowest PY) handicap applicable. Please let the Race Officer or duty OOD know.
Where can I ask further questions?
If you're interested in racing, but need a crew (or helm!) to participate, or have any other questions please contact us on the club WhatsApp group and we'll do our best to help.
Related
- Grassholme Cup - Day 1 (29 August)
- Grassholme Cup - Day 2 (30 August)
- Grassholme Cup BBQ (30 August, 15:30-17:30)
