Probably the longest established long distance race in the country, since 1987 the East Coast Piers Race has attracted top continental sailors, and development classes, along with the cream of big cat sailors. However, the East Coast Piers Race isn’t just for big cats – a shorter, but no less demanding course (known as The Colne Point Race) is always available for smaller cats and fast dinghies with a PY of 980 or faster.
The Marconi team have the organisation down to a fine art – with a huge grassy boat park in which to camp and park, intimate bar and excellent race organisation.
The course is marked with cruiser “mother ships” flying orange flags, and is quite easy for first timers. It is a challenge, but a manageable one. At any time you can moor behind a mother ship and not be disqualified, we also have over 10 ribs along the course to help you if needed.
You sail from the start of Osea Pier, down the Blackwater Estuary to Bradwell, across the Estuary, and then along the coast passing Clacton Pier and turning at Walton Pier. Hence the name The Three Piers Race.
Please Note
There is an age restriction for taking part in both the ECPR and Colne Point races. If you’re sailing by yourself (single handed) you must be 18 or over. If you are sailing with two people on the boat, both crew must be over the age of 16 and at least one over the age of 18.
The following safety equipment must also be present on the boat:
- One Buoyancy Aid/Life Jacket per crew member
- 10m tow line per boat
- One flare per crew member
- One paddle per boat
- One compass per boat