Firefly National Championships 2024 at Restronguet Sailing Club

Firefly National Championships 2024 at Restronguet Sailing Club - Preview

by Firefly class 21 Jun 13:35 UTC 27 July - 2 August 2024

Firefly South Westerns 2023 at Restronguet © Ian Symonds

The Firefly National Championships is set to return to the iconic Restronguet Sailing Club on Saturday, July 27th for its 78th National Championship. With nearly 70 entries already confirmed, this year's event promises to be bigger, better, and more epic than ever before.

Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a newcomer to the sport, the Firefly National Championships offers a unique opportunity to compete at a high level of one design racing and be part of an unforgettable event.

The excitement is building, with the number of entries expected to reach the 80 boat limit soon, so If you haven't entered yet, now is the time to secure your spot and join the party, literally.... The Firefly class loves a party & this year's social schedule is rammed full: Live Bands, Curry Night, BBQ & a "Famous Duo's" themed Fancy Dress night.

This year's championship is gratefully supported by:

Visit Cornwall - as if that really needs any encouragement in July!
Craftinsure - official sponsor of the legendary 'Buddies', ensuring that all competitors are paired up, front with back, with daily prizes & the chance to be crowned the 2024 Awesome Foursome.
Ovington Boats - our new class appointed builders, have supplied over 40 race ready Fireflys within the last year. Will be providing swag to keep all the competitors cool during the week
Hyde Sails, the class sailmaker of choice, who will be offering a brand new jib for the 'best improver' & some of their spanking new covers as prizes.
Selden, supporting the 'Endeavour' & 'Top Institution Boat' prizes with a Jib stick & a new boom up for grabs
Marlow Ropes, supporting both the Marlow Trophy race and the 'Marlow' Silver Fleet Prizes.
Sailboat Trailers, providing awesome trailer related prizes - who doesn't need new trolley wheels?
Allen, sponsoring the 'Allen Pit Lane' which opens on Saturday morning, with Allen & Marlow supported race kits, ready to help prepping competitor's boats for championship course racing plus class experts on hand to assist with tuning & setup.

Firefly South Westerns 2023 at Restronguet - photo © Ian Symonds

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Cornwall's stunning weather and coastline, Restronguet Sailing Club offers the perfect setting for this premier event. Known for its rich sailing heritage and world-class facilities, Restronguet is ready to welcome sailors and families alike for a spectacular week of racing & socials.

The 78th Firefly Championship is setting a new standard as the "boat for all" class within the sailing world:

Within the teams already entered this year, ages range from 13 to 74, demonstrating the huge appeal of the firefly, as a cost effective, established & welcoming class, to sail with friends, family and to enjoy a week of racing. Cementing those friendships and skills acquired through youth and junior sailing without any pressure of squads, rankings etc.

16 of the helms entered are under 18, showcasing the incredible young talent that the Firefly class is attracting.

Half of the helms entered are under 30. 15 of the entered helms and 50% of the competitors are female, highlighting the class's status as an all inclusive boat, committed to promoting gender equality and we're proud to be achieving a milestone with a 50:50 gender split across the event.

We welcome back last year's student winners, the UEA's Will Pank & Steve Carver, who will be out to defend their title against a formidable fleet including 6 previous champions. 2 current RYA Youth National Champions & a wide range of sailors from across the country.