Canadian Shark Class Launches 2026 Regatta Circuit
March 12, 2026
The 2026 Canadian Shark Class Association regatta circuit is officially underway, marking a new chapter in one of Canada’s most cherished one-design keelboat racing traditions. With over 200 boats expected to compete throughout the season and numerous events that regularly draw 30+ boats on the line, the Shark fleet continues to thrive on the all over the country and beyond. (shark24.ca).. This year the Shark Worlds will be held in Belleville, ON!
A Season Packed With Exciting Events
The 2026 CSCA schedule features a series of regattas hosted by clubs from Ontario and Quebec, offering competitive racing and community celebration for sailors of all levels. Highlights of the circuit include:
- 2026 Shark Trillium Regatta — May 23–24 at Royal Canadian Yacht Club in Toronto.
- 2026 Coupe du Québec Regatta — June 6–7 at Beaconsfield Yacht Club.
- 2026 Shark World Championship — June 27–July 2 at Bay of Quinte Yacht Club in Belleville — one of the premier events of the season.
- Golden Horseshoe Regatta — July 11–12 at Royal Hamilton Yacht Club.
- Hal Ebert / Western Championship — August 1–2 at South Port Sailing Club.
- Women’s Annual Regatta — August 8–9 in Royal Hamilton Yacht Club
- Gold Cup Regatta — August 15–16 at National Yacht Club in Toronto.
- Ontario Provincial Championship — August 29–30 at Kingston Yacht Club.
- Canadian Championship — September 12–13 in Sarnia Yacht Club.
- Homecomers Regatta — September 26–27 at Niagara-on-the-Lake Sailing Club.
These events not only serve as pinnacle competitions for one-design racing but also contribute points toward the coveted Sid Dakin Shark of the Year Trophy, awarded to the season’s top performer based on their best five regattas.
A Legacy Built on Performance and Community
The Shark 24 is more than just a raceboat — it’s a cornerstone of Canadian sailing history. Designed in 1959 by George Hinterhoeller in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, this 24-foot keelboat revolutionized one-design racing in Canada with its blend of performance, seaworthiness, and accessibility. (shark24.ca)
From humble beginnings in a backyard shed, the Shark quickly captured the hearts of sailors. Over 2,500 Sharks have been produced by builders including Hinterhoeller Yachts, C&C, and Hallman, with active fleets thriving in clubs across Ontario, Quebec, and internationally.
Strength Across Canadian Clubs
Sailors of varying experience levels — from seasoned veterans to youth teams — are active members of the fleet, contributing to one of Canada’s largest one-design keelboat communities
Rod Gardner
President, Canadian Shark Class Association
