Merlin Rocket Open Meeting - 80th Anniversary Champions Race & Celebrations

2026 marks the 80th anniversary of the Merlin Rocket Class, where celebrations began at the RYA Dinghy and Watersports Show in Farnborough in February. There are celebratory events throughout the year with one of the key events, comprising both sailing and a celebratory party, being the Champion of Champions race on Saturday 5th September 2026.

Merlin Rocket open NOR, can be found here: Merlin Open NoR 2026

This decennial event which was started on the 40th anniversary of the class, marks the wonderful heritage of champion sailors including young and old Olympians and alumni from other classes, who have won the National Championships. Invitations have been sent out to Champions going back to the 1970s and we are looking forward to welcoming a number of them and where possible their championship winning boats to take part in a race on the River Thames in front of spectators enjoying the wonderful Upper Thames clubhouse and river side lawns.

The Champion of Champions race will take place after lunch at around 2.30 pm on Saturday, preceded by a race for women and juniors at 11.00am and the Spade Oak Bowl trophy race for all comers at 12.00 noon.

After the racing has completed the serious partying can begin with drinks served from a marquee on the lawn, a prizegiving and introduction to the champions by their compere and raconteur Peter Scott. A hot buffet supper will be served, a disco to entertain us and the bar that will be open until late.

Tickets are £45 each for the Saturday party and booking can be found here.

On Sunday 6th September, the Silver Tiller Merlin Rocket Open Meeting is being incorporated into the Thames Series and Vintage Series, so why not make a weekend of it? Camping is available on site and there is other accommodation available locally.

Any questions or further information please contact Duncan Salmon.

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For more information check out the Merlin Rocket Association