A BRIGHT FUTURE

The final RYA Dinghy Show to be hosted at Alexandra Palace was a resounding success. We pick some of the highlights

- Alexandra Palace

The world’s only show dedicated to dinghy sailing announced it would be moving next year to Farnham, in Hampshire, but the final show at Alexandra Palace in London was one to remember, as crowds braved bad weather, train strikes and the looming threat of Covid-19 to make the 2020 event a resounding success.

The RYA Dinghy Show, in association with Yachts & Yachting, was opened on 29 February by hosts double Olympic gold medallist Sarah Ayton, Laser sailor Sam Whaley of the British Sailing Team and match racing world champion Annie Lush.

Other members of the British Sailing Team, including the athletes who will be competing in the Tokyo Games, were at the show meeting members of the public and signing show programmes and Olympic memorabilia for youngsters.

For 2021, the RYA Dinghy Show will be held at the Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference Centre over the weekend of 27-28 February. “After 25 fantastic years at Alexandra Palace, it feels like we’ve reached a milestone year for the RYA Dinghy Show and the time is right for a change in venue,” said RYA Director of Sport Development Alistair Dickson.

“Over the past few years we’ve been listening to both the visitor and exhibitor feedback and have taken on an extensive review of the show’s location and venue, carefully considering everything from travel and distance to sustainability and floor space.

“A large number of potential venues were considered across the UK, with Farnborough eventually coming out top due to its excellent accessibility, modern and sustainable facilities, appropriate size and space, free onsite parking and reasonably priced local accommodation options for visitors and exhibitors.”