HOLY LOCH Sailing Club has kicked off its 2026 season in style, combining competitive racing on the water with community events ashore.
The first Wednesday evening race of the year, held on April 29, attracted 14 boats across four fleets – white sails, Pipers, Flying Fifteens and dinghies – in bright, sunny conditions with a moderate breeze. As racing got underway, the wind freshened, providing a lively start to the season and quickly blowing away any winter rust among competitors.
An easterly wind saw an unusual course set, with a long beat towards Strone and a downwind leg to Sandbank, directly into the evening sun.
In the white sail fleet, Atia, skippered by D. Chalmers, took first place on handicap, ahead of Moonlight (N. Scriven) and Tighsolius V (K. Grant). Judicious and Panache completed the fleet.
The Piper class began the season on a sombre note following the passing of Bronwen Angus, a well-known and enthusiastic member of the club. A reduced fleet of three boats took to the water in her memory, with Tom Piper (S. Brown and A. Gordon) claiming victory after a close race with Tamarind (A. Love) and Talisker.
In the Flying Fifteens, Waffle (J. Maclean) finished just ahead of Effycacious (T. McGleachie), despite a brief loss of control during the race.
The dinghy fleet introduced a new race format this season, sailing a shorter course until stopped by the race officer, with results based on average lap times adjusted for handicap. Stubborn Tart (N. Towart) took the win, followed by Painted Warrior, Laser 8570 and Killer B.
The club’s official Opening Regatta took place on Saturday, May 2, alongside a well-attended Spring Tea in the clubhouse. Members, families and visitors enjoyed an afternoon of home baking, tea and coffee, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere while waiting for racing to begin.
A lack of wind led to a delayed start, but patience paid off as light airs eventually allowed a closely contested race involving 15 boats.
In the Piper fleet, Staypuff (R. Towart), crewed by Caroline Clark and Charmaine Russell, claimed the Holy Loch Cup, holding off Tom Piper and Tamarind.
The white sail race saw Judicious (J. Hoey) reverse midweek fortunes to take first place, with Atia second and Moonlight third.
In the Flying Fifteens, Nae Fear (I. Sinclair) led from the start to secure victory over Effycacious.
The dinghy fleet once again saw Stubborn Tart dominate, finishing ahead of Painted Warrior and Killer B after leading from the first lap.
Off the water, the club continues to invest in its facilities, with upgrades to changing rooms, including new flooring and showers, as well as repairs to the slipway to improve access for boats. Members have also been working to fund and build a new club skiff, which is expected to be launched later in the season.
The clubhouse remained busy into the evening, with members of Fairlie Sailing Club visiting as part of their own season opening.
Looking ahead, 2026 marks a significant milestone for the Piper class, which celebrates its 60th anniversary this year. A programme of special events is planned to mark the occasion.
With strong turnouts, competitive racing and an active social calendar, Holy Loch Sailing Club has made an encouraging start to the new season as it continues to welcome new members of all ages and abilities.
