Round Hayling Challenge 2026

The Round Hayling Challenge is an 18-nautical-mile circumnavigation of Hayling Island, starting and finishing at Cobnor Hard. It takes place during the Cobnor Camp fortnight, with participants selecting their own day to sail, row, or paddle the loop. Cliff Martin created the event in 2008, and it has been held annually since then as part of the DCA South Coast sailing calendar. The route can be completed clockwise or anticlockwise, but it involves more than a simple lap around the island. Crews must account for two large tidal harbours, two harbour entrances with bars, strong tides, a sea passage, and a bridge. Various dinghies have completed the challenge, and even a kayak has made it around. The prizes maintain the small-boat focus: the Hayling Challenge Trophy is awarded for the best overall circumnavigation, the Allan Earl Trophy for the best traditionally-rigged boat, and the Gunter Grail for the best passage under a Mirror-style rig. The day still allows for picnics, pub visits, and ice cream stops.