The Royal Western Yacht Club will once again host the Plymouth Fastnet 500 race in August 2023 with entries now open.

RWYC Commodore, Chris Arscott said: “The ‘500’ had its inaugural race in 2021 and was a big hit for all those who took part. Along with being the venue for the Americas Cup World Series and the SailGP, Plymouth Sound National Marine Park is the famous finishing port of the ‘Fastnet Race’. It is not only a privilege to offer the ‘500’ race but it is really exciting to see the race developing into a ‘must do’ on the calendar.”

Leaving Plymouth on 13 August at 1200hrs, the fleet will pass the first lighthouse, the Eddystone, to Starboard. They then pass the Isles of Scilly whilst avoiding all the ‘no-go’ TSS zones, then across the Irish Sea to set up for a port rounding of the famous Fastnet Rock. On their return they will leave the Isles of Scilly to Port and finish in Plymouth sound, just in time to enjoy the National Fireworks Championships which happens on the same week as the finish.

RWYC Rear Commodore Oceanic and Race Director, Adrian Gray said, “The attraction of this race is clear, no logistics in getting kit from the start to the finish, no need for passports, less time off work, much cheaper berthing than the Solent yet it has all the thrills and key features of the ‘Fastnet Race’ or indeed the ‘Original Lonely Rock Race’ which will see its 100th year in 2025. We have some great entries who are potentially up for the record, we cannot wait to see which local, national and international entries join them in what will no doubt be a permanent fixture for those who love their offshore racing but prefer a southwest price tag. We have an incredible arena for the start and the finish. Ask anyone, there is something really special about Plymouth Sound and what we have to offer, that’s why yachts keep coming back time after time.”

Entries are open for yachts of 27ft to 70ft in length, mono and multihull. Classes will be offered to Solo, 2 handed and fully crewed. IRC, IMOCA and MOCRA Handicaps will be accepted, along with non-rated boats.

For further information and to enter the race, please refer to https://rwyc.org/plymouth-fastnet-500-race/

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