The fireworks had been missing for six years. They came back Friday evening, lighting up the Solent sky above a waterfront packed with families, islanders, visitors, and sailors who had gathered to close out a milestone: the 200th edition of North Sails Cowes Week.
Thirty-six classes competed across the eight days, the fleet spanning everything from vintage yachts to the sharpest modern race boats. Silverware and commemorative mementos marked the occasion for winners throughout the week.
At the top of the fleet, Karl Kwok's Beau Geste claimed IRC Zero honours. Julian Metherell won the Cape 31 class with Bullit. John Scammell and Maxine Reeves took victory with Victory Zilch, while the Swallow class went to Nigel Masding and Hugo Fisher aboard Svala.
Further down the card, Phil Lawrence's XOD Lone Star won the classic one-design class. Ben Rogers claimed the Contessa 32 with Solan Goose. Crispin Winser's RS21 White Oryx also made the top step.
The 201st edition is already dated. North Sails Cowes Week 2027 runs 31 July to 6 August.
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