A New Way to Sail: Radio Controlled Yacht Racing Arrives at Budworth

Published 08:35 on 21 Jan 2026

Radio Controlled Yacht Racing is coming to Budworth this is your invitation and opportunity to join in!

At the committee meeting held on Jan 15th the introduction of Radio Controlled racing was approved following interest from a number of members. Radio controlled model yacht racing is a fast growing sport and very popular in the UK and Worldwide.

Racing can be very competitive but sociable. Each race lasts about 10 minutes so things happen quickly with plenty of starting practice and tactical challenges. The boats chosen are DragonFlight DF95 yachts, a capable One Design class for fair and low cost racing. The DF 95 is raced at many other clubs around the region such as Birkenhead, Rudyard, Dovestones, Llandudno and others. Open events are held regionally with National and Global Championships for the very keen racers. Unlike most keelboats which require marina berthing, large crew teams and very large budgets, the DF95 complete kit to start racing including boat, full rig with sails, cradle, radio equipment and a few accessories is around £500. The DF95 easily fits in your car to take home after racing. Racing will be held for Club members on Thursdays. Races typically last 10 minutes aiming for 8 to 12 races per day with social breaks between groups of races.

A presentation is scheduled at the Cock 'O' Budworth on Tuesday 3rd February at 7pm, for 7.15pm start. You will be able to see the boats and talk with regional expert sailors of the DF95. Most importantly, discuss how to get a boat, assemble it and start racing. If you would like to know more about radio controlled racing plans at Budworth and be added to communications, please contact Philip Barnes who is leading the initiative working closely with Graham Birkett.

Initially, please contact Philip (his email can be found in the members directory once you login) with your mobile number to be added to the Budworth Radio Sailing WhatsApp group. Radio sailing in the UK is governed by the Model Yachting Association UK.

Budworth SC will affiliate to the MYA UK and all club radio sailors must be members of the MYA which includes 3rd party insurance cover. MYA UK membership fees are currently £10 per annum.

MYA Website www.mya-uk.org.uk

Image - Dave Sellens