SOLENT EVENTS DIARY Y BRITISH CLASSIC WEEK 15 – 22 July The UK’s leading classic yacht regatta, British Classic Week, takes place in Cowes this year from 15 – 22 July. Organised by British Classic Yacht Club (BCYC) and hosted by Cowes Yacht Haven, the regatta attracts a fleet of beautifully maintained classic sail and motor SOLENT EVENTS DIARyachts from across the UK and Europe. During the six-race series organised by the prestigious Royal Yacht Squadron, there is plenty of action on the water and much of the racing can be watched from the Esplanade. The complex tides of the busy Solent deliver challenging conditions for the talented sailors racing in the UK’s most iconic stretch of water for competitive sailing. As well as fast-paced racing, the regatta offers a vibrant social scene, including drinks at the Royal Yacht Squadron, a dock party, and a prize giving dinner. britishclassicweek.co.uk British Classic Week, Chris Brown Photography ROLEX FASTNET RACE 22 July The 50th edition of the world’s largest offshore race will start from the Royal Yacht Squadron line on Saturday 22 July, with spectators enjoying the atmosphere of the international yachting festival as boats complete the 690 nautical mile course from Cowes to Cherbourg-en-Cotentin, via the Fastnet Rock. The biennial race is a rite of passage for all those taking part where the ultimate goal is to take home the historic Fastnet Challenge Cup - first presented back in 1925. Rolex Fastnet Race, Kurt Arrigo - Rolex 46 solenthandbook.com