I had to check several times but, unlikely as it seemed, this is the first Edinburgh Cup win for the iconic Royal Dragon, Bluebottle GBR192.
After receiving Bluebottle in 1948 Prince Philip (Duke of Edinburgh) presented the Edinburgh Cup in 1949 to the British Dragon Class for the winner of the annual National Championship.
After recently undergoing a full restoration by David Heritage Racing Yachts on the Isle of Wight, Graham and Julia Bailey, Killian Boag and William Bedford aboard Bluebottle have now ticked that box.
Leading into the final day of the championship at Cowes, a win in the first race (R6) , ahead of True Story GRB818 of Dominic Bakker, and Send In The Clowns GBR832 of David Tabb, allowed them the luxury forgoing the final race with the Edinburgh Cup safely secure.
Winner of that final race was Provezza Dragon TUR12 of Andy Beadsworth, with second Cobweb NED 393 of Richard Blickman, and third Louise Racing GBR833 of Grant Gordon.
Overall Bluebottle topped the Edinburgh Cup podium with 27 pts, second was Aurora GER11 of Christopher Toepfer on 33 pts and third Provezza Dragon TUR12 of Andy Beadsworth with 36 pts.
Winner of the Corinthian Trophy was Martin Byrne’s IRL201 Jaguar Sailing Team crewed by Rory Byrne and Adam Winkleman.
2026 Edinburgh Cup & UK Dragon Grand Prix (49 entries)
