Sailing Club welcomes the return of the British Keelboat League
The British Keelboat League (BKL) is set to return to Rutland Sailing Club in July 2023, offering a chance for a team to secure a spot in the European SAILING Champions League 2026. This exciting event, known for its highly competitive and tight racing, is open for entry and welcomes teams from various backgrounds, including clubs, class associations, schools, universities, and groups of friends.
The top three teams from the Rutland event will be invited to compete in the 2025 BKL final, hosted by the Royal Thames Yacht Club at Cowes in September. The event at Rutland Sailing Club typically features short course racing with a focus on quick turnarounds and multiple races per day, using keelboats like the RS21, which are considered ideal for club racers due to their performance and handling.
Affordable on-site accommodation options are available at Rutland SC, including bunk rooms and a campsite opposite. In February 2022, the Rutland event was practically sold out with 11 teams, including Derbyshire Youth Sailing, one of the first teams to enter the latest Rutland event, having enjoyed their first BKL experience at the club in February.
David Wilkins, Event Director, stated that teams can pull up through the results as their tactics and boat handling develop over the weekend. The event aims to run a total of 40 races, each approximately 15 minutes long, with up to 12 teams competing in around 20 races each in the club's RS21s. An optional, free afternoon of sailing will be available at the club on the Friday of the event weekend for teams to practise and get up to speed in the RS21 keelboats.
The BKL event at Rutland Sailing Club is known for its friendly, sociable, and supportive atmosphere both on the water and ashore. Entry to the Rutland event includes a three-course Saturday evening meal for all competitors. For more information or to enter the event, visit the official BKL website.
- During the competition at Rutland Sailing Club in July 2023, teams will have an opportunity to advance to the BKL final in 2025, not just through their sailing skills, but also through their development in tactics and boat handling.
- Besides keelboat racing, the event at Rutland Sailing Club offers an optional, free afternoon of sailing for teams to practice in the RS21 keelboats before the official races begin, fostering a relaxed and encouraging atmosphere.
