Manches Cup

Date: Friday 15th May 2015

Course: Cowes, English Channel, Isle of Wight, Solent

Category: Inshore

Entry Deadline: Monday 30th November -0001

Summary:

The Manches Cup has been held for the last 23 years and the 24th edition looks to be as popular as ever, with 60 or more entries expected to compete in this hotly contested event. The bad news is that if you’re not a lawyer, you can’t take part, as this regatta has become the main social, sporting and networking event for lawyers.

Taking place over the weekend of May 17, there is a busy programme of racing in three different classes, IRC 1 and 2 for the serious racers and some more laid back competition in the cruising class, where spinnakers are dispensed with. The event kicks off on Friday evening in Port Hamble, a fine hub of sailing and participants are invited to head to Boomerangs Bar in the centre of Hamble for a bit of light chit chat on laws, beer and other weighty matters and generally preparing themselves mentally for the serious business of racing the following day.

The following morning is devoted to a touch of training and familiarisation, so that all are fully prepped and primed for some serious racing in the afternoon. With racing concluded, the action switches to Cowes Yacht Haven and this is where matters get really serious with a themed party, with fancy dress strongly encouraged. This year’s theme is ‘under the sea’ so be prepared! After dinner, there will be live music and then – at least for some- an early night in preparation for the following days racing. Others may choose to partake in a late nightcap in order to prepare more rigorously for the travails of the following days racing.

The event wraps up on Sunday evening in uproarious fashion with prize giving on Sunday lunch at Cowes Event Centre. It’s almost worth those years at Law School for this event alone.