‘The English Open Challenger Sailing Championship’ – A report by Court Assistant Mr James Wilkes

Court Assistant Mr James Wilkes represented the Shipwrights’ Company at the 2026 ‘English Open Challenger Sailing Championship ‘(EOCC) which took place over the weekend of16 and 17 May 2026 at Farmoor Reservoir, Oxfordshire.  The EOCC is a very important event in the Challenger Class Association’s calendar and the winning sailor is awarded the title ‘English Champion’ and receives The Shipwrights’ English National Trophy.

James stated that “It was another fantastic year, and as previously, everyone was so grateful for the Company’s support.”  He was surprised and delighted to note that the event now seems to be commonly referred to as the “Worshipful Company of Shipwrights English Open Challenger Championships”!!  The Company awards EOCC an annual grant of £2,500 to help with the costs of the event and James believes that the unofficial name has evolved to recognise the award.

James’ report, which incudes the results, can be found here: 2026_May_EOCC Report