Racing at Bangor Regatta in June promises to be keener than ever with the appearance in the Coastal IRC and YTC class of not one but two Swans.

The Swan 40 Sloop John T is better known outside Northern Ireland with a long and successful racing record. Brothers Iain and Graham Thomson’s Swan 40 from Clyde Cruising Club and Arran Yacht Club at Lamlash is welcomed for the first time at Bangor Regatta.

The other is the beautifully restored Swan 36 Lofna owned by Gill and Derek Fairley, appearing in Belfast Lough in 2021 after a lengthy restoration.  

The Swan 40  Sloop John T Photo: Marc Turner/CCC

The Fairleys, who are the Cruising Conveners at Royal Ulster, are looking forward to the competition. "This will be the first regatta we have entered since relaunching Lofna after her refit. Last season, RUYC Club Racing gave us the opportunity to learn how she performs round the cans, and we are looking forward to some close and enjoyable racing in our home waters at the end of June. We’ll see how it goes combining cruising with racing!

Bangor Marina on Belfast Lough 

The Thomson brothers will be top class competitors having won the 2011 and 2017 Swan Europeans at Cowes and more recently the highly contested CCC Bute Race in 2022. The smaller Swan 36 is among several boats making a first appearance at Bangor Regatta and Harbour Master and Marina Manager Kevin Baird is looking forward to meeting all the visitors; “We’re absolutely delighted to extend a warm Northern Irish welcome to everyone coming to the Bangor Regatta, with a special shout-out to the boats making their debut with us this year. The addition of new crews really spices things up, injecting an exciting buzz into this great sailing event. The Regatta isn’t only about the competition; it’s a chance to showcase Bangor’s charm and share the warmth and friendliness central to our sailing ethos. Prepare for an unforgettable experience brimming with fantastic memories".