An event which was once a major highlight of the Belfast Lough programme in times past found a new and very active lease of life when Bangor Town Regatta was re-introduced as a major biennial event in July 2018. The developing RC 35 class - with boats from Scotland, Ireland, England and Wales - provided the backbone of a fleet which pushed towards the hundred mark, and a useful variety of excellent sailing conditions in superb weather put the seal of success on an event well–tailored for contemporary needs.
The outline programme for next year’s BTR from Thursday 25th to Sunday 28th June 2020 was unveiled at a launching in Royal Ulster YC at the weekend, and Chairman Gavin Watson announced that RUYC, Quay Marinas who operate the town’s large award-winning marina complex, and the local authority, Ards & North Down Borough Council, will be teaming together to provide the successful formula with some additions which will add to a very complete package for today’s busy sailors.
With a launching attendance which included noted cruiser-racer skipper Jay Colville who is also Vice Chair of Sport NI, RUYC Flag Officers Nigel Hamilton (Vice Commodore) and Rear Commodore Maurice Butler provided further insight into a programme for the needs of today, a 9-race formula which will see the sailing and shoreside communities combine resources to maximise sport afloat and sociability ashore.
