New Chairman Launches BDA 70th Anniversary Celebrations, drawing attention to a packed 2026 racing calendar.
Nearly 50 British Dragon sailors, boat owners and friends gathered at the Royal Thames Yacht Club in Knightsbridge for the annual dinner and AGM.
AGM Highlights
Newly appointed BDA Chairman, Chris Grosscurth, officially launched the Association’s 70th anniversary celebrations, marking the occasion with a new commemorative logo.
“I’m honoured to be stepping into the role of Chairman and grateful for the trust of the membership. The AGM reminded us of what makes the BDA so strong: competitive racing and a community that supports one another. My focus for 2026 is simple: support great racing across the fleets, communicate clearly, and keep the class welcoming and thriving.” – Chris Grosscurth, BDA Chairman
Attendees heard thanks to The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust for their support of the upcoming Edinburgh Cup Grade 1 in Cowes, an important highlight in the BDA calendar. This was enhanced with the announcement of an active racing calendar across the BDA regions and UK-based regattas.
Looking ahead to 2026, it was announced that a special 70th anniversary race will take place on Monday, 17 August 2026 in Cowes, ahead of the Edinburgh Cup, a fitting on-the-water celebration of the Association’s milestone year.
Trophy Winners
The dinner is a popular opportunity to start the season, networking with friends and fellow Dragon sailors from across all of the fleets. It is also the perfect platform to celebrate season triumphs and trophy winners.
The inaugural East Coast Windward Leeward Series winner was announced as Edwin Hannant, Medway Yacht Club, who had a well-earned overall win after a consistent series. He receives the trophy, donated by Poul Richard Hoj-Jensen.
British Dragons that competed in regional BDA events and 50% or more of their club racing went into a draw to win two Katie Cole service vouchers of £1000 each. The lucky draw winners were Bluebottle and Navaho.
The final trophy presentation of the night saw the Citron Trophy deservedly go back to Gavia Wilkinson-Cox. This is her fourth overall win of the trophy and the third back-to-back win. View all previous Citron Trophy winners >>
The Corinthian Citron prize went to Jono Brown, who claimed second overall.