RORC End of Season Prize-Giving in Cowes

The 2026 domestic offshore season was celebrated at the RORC Cowes Clubhouse as thoughts already turned to racing in 2027.

The Royal Ocean Racing Club celebrated the close of the 2026 domestic offshore season with an informal End of Season Prize-Giving at the RORC Cowes Clubhouse on Saturday 19 September.

RORC Racing Manager Chris Jackson acted as Master of Ceremonies, with prizes presented by RORC Commodore Deb Fish and Vice Commodore Derek Shakespeare. The arrangement required a little flexibility—both the Commodore and Vice Commodore were themselves among the prize winners, so on occasion presenter and recipient had to swap roles.

The awards recognised performances across the Myth of Malham Race, Morgan Cup, De Guingand Bowl, Channel Race and Cherbourg Race, with a number of the Club’s historic trophies also presented.

Among those collecting prizes were Ian Hoddle of Sky Business – Game On, Sam White of Mzungu!, Gavin Howe of Tigris, James Neville of Ino Veritas and Rob Craigie with Deb Fish of Bellino. Vice Commodore Derek Shakespeare was also among the prize winners, while Inka Lührs and Richard Bretherton of Zanzibar were represented on the night. There was a strong turnout from competitors after another busy season of RORC offshore racing.

Photos: Kristen Lloyd/RORC

Following the presentations, members and crews stayed on for supper at the clubhouse. The atmosphere remained deliberately informal, with the Fastnet Bar busy well into the evening as attention began to turn from the season just completed to plans, campaigns and ambitions for racing in 2027.

The season’s celebrations are not over yet

The RORC Annual Dinner and Prize-Giving brings the Club together for the major celebration of the year, recognising outstanding performances across the season as well as the presentation of some of RORC’s most prestigious trophies and special awards.

Join fellow RORC members, sailors, owners and crews for a great night and help celebrate an exceptional year of offshore racing. 

Book your tickets for the RORC Annual Dinner and Prize-Giving 2026