GBR IRC 2025 Championships and new prize sponsor announced

With multiple events spanning from May to November, this year’s championships will be hosted at some of the most scenic and challenging venues across the British Isles, bringing together top sailing talent to compete in a wide array of regattas.

The RORC Rating Office is pleased to announce that prizes for GBR IRC 2025 Championships will be provided by North Sails, and winners can look forward to crew merchandise and a more significant prize for the overall Champion at each event.

“North Sails is proud to be supporting the IRC Championships taking place throughout the UK. As the leading supplier of racing sails in the world, we understand the excitement of racing in IRC and how to come out on top. We hope everyone gets the most out of their racing in 2025, my team and I hope to meet many of you at these events. If you think North Sails can help you and your team, please give us a call for some friendly sail advice. Good Luck!”

Ian Walker, North Sails UK General Manager.

In addition, each Championship winner is eligible for free entry and berthing at the following year’s National Championship.

May 2025: The Championship Kick-off

The 2025 IRC Championship calendar will kick off in May with the IRC Welsh National Championship held from 2 – 4 May in the breathtaking setting of Pwllheli, Cardigan Bay. Organized as part of the Celtic Regatta, this event will showcase some of the best yachts competing in Welsh waters. The event is known for its strong local support and spectacular coastal racing conditions.

Simultaneously, the IRC Bristol Channel Championships will be underway. The first weekend of racing takes place at Portishead from 3 – 4 May, followed by Cardiff from 24 – 25 May. This dual-venue event will provide a unique challenge for participants as they navigate the diverse conditions of the Bristol Channel.

Meanwhile, the IRC Double Handed National Championships will challenge competitors, racing from Cowes on the Isle of Wight in two popular races in the RORCcalendar: the De Guingand Bowl on 17 May and the Myth of Malham on the 24 May.

Later in the month, the action moves north to Scotland with the IRC Scottish Championships at Tarbert, Loch Fyne, hosted by the prestigious Clyde Cruising Club. Running from 23 – 26 May, this event is one of the highlights of the championship, offering scenic and demanding courses in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.

June 2025: National Championships & Milestone Event

A major event in the GBR IRC Championship season will take place from 13 – 15 Junewith the IRC National Championship, which will also form part of the Royal Thames Yacht Club's 250th Anniversary Regatta. This special event, organised in collaboration with the Royal Ocean Racing Club, which is also celebrating its centenary, will be held at the famous sailing hub of Cowes, Isle of Wight. This regatta is expected to draw significant attention both domestically and internationally, making it a centrepiece of the 2025 championships.

July to November: Coast-to-Coast Sailing and Year-Round Competition

In July, sailors will head to the IRC East Coast Championship, held during Ramsgate Week from 23 - 25 July. Known for its rich maritime history and welcoming atmosphere, Ramsgate will offer participants challenging courses on the East Coast.

The IRC South West Championship is scheduled at the Royal Dartmouth Yacht Clubfrom 27 - 30 July. Set against the backdrop of Devon’s stunning coastline, this event promises to test sailors' endurance and skill.

The summer and autumn seasons conclude with the IRC Channel Islands Championship at the Jersey Regatta from 13 – 14 September. This popular event draws sailors from across the Channel Islands and the UK to compete in Jersey’s picturesque waters, offering a thrilling close to the competitive summer season.

Finally, the IRC Inland Championship, organised by the Windermere Cruising Association, will run from November 2025 to March 2026, ensuring the competitive spirit continues well beyond the traditional sailing season. 

Full details of the 2025 GBR IRC Championships are on the RORC Rating Office website.