The Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC) has announced the RORC Cowes Offshore Racing Series – a new 7-race programme for all RORC races starting from Cowes in 2025, excluding the Rolex Fastnet Race.
From May to September, a wide variety of boats and sailors will compete for Assuage Trophies, awarded to all IRC class series winners. A team’s best five race results will count towards their series score. The RORC Cowes Offshore Racing Series is planned as an annual event, offering a fun, competitive season of offshore racing for Solent-based boats.
The series kicks off on 3rd May with the Cervantes Trophy Race to Le Havre, and with 85 boats already entered, it promises to be a thrilling opener. The recently renovated RORC Cowes Clubhouse will serve as the social hub throughout the season, offering facilities including a restaurant, bar, and accommodation with stunning Solent views.
RORC Commodore Deb Fish, who will be racing in the inaugural series with Rob Craigie’s Sun Fast 3600 Bellino, shared her enthusiasm. Bellino, racing double-handed, has won the last two RORC Season’s Points Championships overall.
“We created this series to be accessible to everyone,” said Deb Fish. “It’s ideal for any boat racing out of the Solent with an IRC certificate. The schedule is designed for teams with limited time and budget – it’s a competition that anyone can aspire to win.”
Competitors can expect exciting racing and a warm welcome at the Cowes Clubhouse.
We’ve designed this to be the perfect racing weekend,” Fish adds. “Interesting courses, strong competition on the water, and a relaxed, social atmosphere off it. The clubhouse will host crew suppers before races, and for non-destination races there will be an opportunity later in the year for prizegivings and a chance to share stories over a drink or two.”
Among the entries is Andrew Tseng’s 1971 Nicholson 55 sloop Quailo 3, a former Admiral’s Cup contender lovingly restored and raced fully crewed by friends.
“The series offers the joy of competitive offshore racing with a good-sized fleet,” says Tseng. “It’s a great balance of challenge and enjoyment. The IRC rule levels the playing field, allowing both modern and classic designs to compete fairly. Boats like Quailo 3, heavier and better suited to longer passages, thrive in this format.”
Tseng also believes the series is a great fit for newer offshore teams:
“With Cowes-based starts and a strong fleet, it offers a familiar and supportive setting to gain experience. You learn in every race—by watching others, sailing alongside them, and exchanging insights back onshore. It’s a welcoming series where everyone can learn, race, and grow together.”
For more information about the RORC Cowes Offshore Series and to enter online, visit: www.SailraceHQ.com
For more information about the RORC Cowes Offshore Series and to enter online, visit: www.rorc.org
