Ullswater Challenge

Published 11:40 on 11 Jul 2025

Jim Young is just back from the Lake District where he competed in the 63rd Lord Birkett race, 'the Glastonbury of sailing', run by Ullwater Yacht Club. This is no simple round the cans race but an exciting weekend long event! Held this year on a wet and windy weekend, Jim takes up the story.

'Saturday was very wet and windy with gusts og well over 30mph. I went out early to check everything was fine with the boat, but then had to endure four general recalls before the race started on the fifth attempt. By now I'd been on the water for 90 minutes - and then the heavens opened! That was enough for me and I decided to retire from the race.

Sunday brought an improvement to the weather, less wind and no rain. Only two recalls meant we were away on the third attempt. I'd decided on the Laser Radial rig and it was perfect for the conditions - and I completed the course in 3 hours and 6 minutes... it's a long race!'

230 boats were on the start line, including 10 Lasers, and Jim finished third in class and 69th overall. quite an achievement.

Jim is no stranger to this Ullswater marathon. He's sailed the Birkett many times with Jeanette (currently sailing an Aero at Shotwick).

'In 2022 (I think), the weather was light and shifty, perfect for the Enterprise we were racing. On Saturday I helmed, coming 39th, but on Sunday Jeanette took over the helm and managed 38th - she's never let me forget it.'

If you fancy giving the event a go next year then speak to Jim, he'd love to see more Shotwick boats compete. But also checkout the event's website: 

photo: Tim Olin (and it might be Jim sneaking in on the top right of the line!)

Last updated 11:40 on 11 July 2025