FAQ's
QUICK ANSWERS
Can I enter any yacht?
Yes you can, provided it is suitably equipped to sail offshore (Equivalent to Cat. C) and must be capable of reefing, have an engine (preferably inboard) and a keel. It must also be capable, under reasonable weather conditions, of completing the course within 8 hours.
Can I enter a small keel boat?
The organisers reserve the right to refer any entry to the Sailing Officer for scrutiny and determination of suitability to enter, especially smaller yachts whose entry will automatically be referred. In the event that the boat is entered by a ‘recognised’ sailing establishment the entry must come covered by their own risk assessment and safety provision for the event.
Can I enter a dinghy?
The short answer is ‘NO’.
Can I select my own charity?
Yes, provided it ‘benefits the human condition’ AND has a Registered Charity Number. One boat - one charity. Tell your charity you have nominated them. They may be able to help raise sponsorship for you by highlighting it on their newsletters/website, and many are keen to thank you for thinking of them. Others may have a banner you can put on your yacht whilst sailing
Where do I enter?
You can enter online via the Registration button on this web site which is activated when Registration opens. See “This Year’s Schedule”
When do I enter?
See “This Year’s Schedule” on this website. Remember there is also a 3-Boat Team event and the 341 challenge for the Smeaton Trophy. There are bonus points for early entry!
Is there a restriction on crew numbers?
No, but since this event goes offshore you need to be aware of their capabilities for the conditions anticipated.
I have never raced before!
This is NOT a race but a ‘Fun Chase’ sailed under the International Colregs – no knowledge of racing rules needed!
How long is the course?
It is a simple course of 26 miles sailed within the area indicated on the ‘About - The Course’ section of this site. The course selected depends on the expected weather conditions on the day.
When will I know my start time?
Some entrants and crew do not live nearby so knowing their start time means they can plan ahead. As Start Times are dependent on the weather and the type of yachts that are sailing, which changes every year, start times are usually available via the website from the Thursday before the event. Typically, start times are from 8.15-10 with a few yachts heading out earlier, and later.
Do I have to attend the Skipper’s Briefing : Virtual (Zoom)
Health and Safety are key. At the Skipper’s Briefing the final course is confirmed and weather conditions advised plus it is a chance to provide final sponsorship and ask any other questions. You can sign in for other yachts but are deemed responsible for keeping them informed.
You can confirm whether you are eligible for the Smeaton - 3 or more sailing on one yacht for the same company, for the Plymouth Yacht Haven and Mayflower Marina Trophies (only if you berth there regularly not just for the event) and the ‘PYH All Female Trophy’.
Where the meeting is held virtually a link will be provided. If you cannot attend please try and ensure your shoreside contact logs in and communicates the information to you. For Zoom, questions and information can be added under the ‘Chat’.
Do I need to raise sponsorship in order to take part?
Yes, minimum of £100 but for late entry it is £150. Within normal entry date min. £100/per boat for 3-boat Team Event.
Can I win a monetary prize?
Your nominated charity will receive a part of the Prize Pot depending on how many sailing and sponsorship points you amass and how early you entered. You might even be awarded one of the discretionary prizes awarded on the day and both the 3-Boat Team event and the 341 Smeaton Trophy also have Prize Money.
ALL the prize money you win goes (is sent directly) to your charity.
Are there any conditions or rules of entry?
Yes, they are clearly stated on the Entry Form and must be read and agreed to. See “T & Cs and LEGAL LIABILITIES”
What is the Prize Giving and Supper ?
After the Pursuit entrants meet at the Eddystone Hall of the National Marine Aquarium for the Prize Giving ceremony and Supper. There are keepsakes (one for each yacht) given to those attending the Prize Giving.
After the supper, prizes are announced. Some prizes are in the form of a Trophy (to be kept for one year), other prizes are a monetary donation, which is made directly to the charity (as part of the Prize cheque) by the Pursuit Treasurer. The various prizes are detailed in the 'Prizes' section. The prize list will be put up on the website soon after the event (accessible from the Home Page).