Falmouth Sunbeam Centenary Regatta Lights Up Falmouth Harbour

Historic yachts and fierce competition mark a century of Sunbeams in a stunning display of maritime heritage.

A Celebration of Maritime Heritage

Falmouth Harbour was the backdrop for a remarkable celebration as 27 classic Sunbeam yachts gathered for the Centenary Regatta, marking 100 years of this iconic class. The event saw the historic V19 Sunbeam Audry, helmed by Stuart Sawyer and Josh Redgrave, dominate the regatta by winning all three days of racing. Meanwhile, Gilly Fox and Bob Warren, aboard V38 Halcyone, clinched the 2024 Open Centenary Championship.

These sleek, elegant vessels, often described as miniature J-Class yachts, showcased the perfect blend of beauty and performance, drawing enthusiasts and competitors from across the country. Among the fleet, twelve Sunbeams made the journey from the Solent, while another came from Salcombe, all eager to test their skills in the challenging waters of Falmouth.

An Iconic Sight on the Water

The sight of these classic yachts racing in Falmouth Harbour was nothing short of breathtaking. “These iconic one-design racing boats have graced the harbour for generations and are a massive part of the harbour’s culture,” said Miles Carden, CEO of Falmouth Harbour. The event not only celebrated the centenary of the Falmouth Sunbeams but also honoured the tradition and craftsmanship that have kept these boats in pristine condition for a century.

For Stuart Sawyer, owner and helmsman of the 98-year-old V19 Audry, participating in the regatta was a highlight of his sailing career. “Of all the racing I’ve done, this has got to be some of the most competitive and challenging,” he said, reflecting on the intense competition that characterised the event.

Preserving a Legacy

The Falmouth Sunbeam Centenary was the culmination of over 12 months of meticulous planning by a dedicated team of Sunbeam owners, led by Falmouth Sunbeam Class Captain Andy Stevenson. The event was notable not just for the scale of participation, but also for the quality of racing, with even minor mistakes costing competitors several places in the rankings.

As the regatta concluded, it was fitting that Gilly Fox and Bob Warren, who have been sailing together for nearly five decades, took the overall Championship in V38 Halcyone. This yacht was the first of the original Falmouth fleet, built in 1924, making their victory a poignant end to the celebrations.

A Timeless Craft

Sunbeams have been a staple of racing in the Solent and Falmouth for decades, with their classic design specifications laid down by Alfred Westmacott in the early 1920s. The original wooden Sunbeams, with their precise measurements and attention to detail, remain a testament to the craftsmanship of a bygone era.

Mylor Yacht Harbour has played a crucial role in preserving this legacy, building new wooden Sunbeams on the exact lines of their predecessors. “At Mylor, we share a passion for these fantastic vessels,” said Roger Graffy, whose own Sunbeam, Milly, was crafted at the yard. The skills of the master craftsmen at Mylor ensure that the tradition of Sunbeam racing remains alive and thriving for future generations.

A Modern Twist on Tradition

In recent years, the introduction of GRP (glass-fibre) Sunbeams to both the Solent and Falmouth fleets has brought a modern twist to this classic design. These new boats, identical in lines and weight to the original wooden vessels, have allowed more sailors to experience the unique joy of racing a Sunbeam.

Shane Carr, Acting Commodore of the Royal Cornwall Yacht Club, expressed his delight at hosting such an important event in Falmouth. “Seeing so many of these beautiful classic yachts racing in the port – the second biggest fleet of Sunbeams that has ever competed here – is very special,” he said.

A Boost for Local Business

The Sunbeam Centenary was not just a celebration of maritime history but also a boost for the local economy. Miles Carden of Falmouth Harbour emphasised the significance of such events for local businesses. “We know how important events like the Sunbeam Centenary are to local business and the local economy and we want to make sure everyone here enjoys them to the full,” he said.

As the sun set on the final day of the regatta, the harbour was left with the memory of a spectacular event that honoured the past, celebrated the present, and looked forward to the future of Sunbeam racing in Falmouth.

For more information on Falmouth Harbour and upcoming events, visit www.falmouthharbour.co.uk or contact the Falmouth Harbour team at 01326 213537.