The first ever race organised solely by the BCYC took place on 1st June 1875. It was therefore important to recognise and commemorate this, in the Club’s 150th anniversary year, with a race on 1st June 2025. Our thanks go to John Morse Solicitors, Swansea for sponsoring and supporting the event.

To help celebrate this auspicious occasion the Club welcomed HM Lord Lieutenant of West Glamorgan, Louise Fleet and the Lord Mayor of Swansea, Cheryl Philpott. The Royal Navy and cadets were also in attendance both on and off the water, adding an extra ceremonial aspect to the event. The White Ensign was flown from the Clubhouse and aboard their RIB. Cadets also welcomed HM Lord Lieutenant and Lord Mayor by saluting them on their arrival.

The tides weren’t great and the weather was challenging, too much for small dinghies, and on the limit for yachts and catamarans, but for those who sailed, it was an exhilarating experience. With quite fierce conditions in the Channel racing took place within the confines of the Bay providing a spectacle for those watching from the Clubhouse.

If ever there was a day where the benefit of waterline length was evidenced, it was this day. As one competitor put it, “the big boat didn’t seem to notice it was windy, whereas the other looked like they were in the roaring 40s!” Line and winning honours went to Fizz, a Bavaria 46, skippered by Paul Wayte. In 2nd place was Wizard, a Hustler SJ30, skippered by Richard Woffinden and in 3rd place was Strike 3, a Westerly GK34, skippered by Adrian Lester.

The fast dinghy fleet comprised 4 Dart18 catamarans and an Osprey who even had the temerity to hoist the spinnaker – once! A series of retirements resulted in an epic battle between the last 2 remaining Dart 18s with Ezri Hemsworth and Wilf Tovey eventually opening up a commanding lead and taking victory over Paul Jenkins and John Shapton.

Following racing, Commodore Bob Wigley welcomed sailors, guests and members. He thanked volunteers, without whom the event simply could not have taken place, and recongnised the club’s close relationship with Mumbles YC and Swansea Yacht and Sub Aqua Club.