The ubiquitous Contessa 26 class yacht, a glassfibre derivative of the Folkboat developed by Jeremy Rogers and David Sadler back in 1966, is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a special regatta in Lymington between 29th – 31st July.
The organisers are hoping that at least 50 entries will return to the spiritual home of the Class. We know of at least two that are coming across from Holland, and more are sailing round from the East coast, joining up for a cruise in company from Burnham-on-Crouch. Other owners who have completed circumnavigations in their boats are travelling from Australia and Canada.
The programme, which is being subsidised by the Class Association, kicks off with an evening barbecue at Fishermans Rest on Friday 29th, followed by a cruise in company to Hurst Castle and back on Saturday in time for a pontoon party and Anniversary Dinner at the Royal Lymington YC. The celebrations end with a Sunday morning race to Yarmouth and lunch at the King’s Head. It promises to be a memorable event!
Our photo shows David Sadler (1921 – 2004) racing his Contessa 26, (Hull No 5) CONTESSA OF MEL, Racing in the Solent in 1966.
PHOTO BY: EILEEN RAMSAY/PPL
For further details, visit www.contessa26.net/
Barry Pickthall, PPL (http://www.pplmedia.com/)