In the spirit of tradition and with the hope there will be fewer conflicts from other regattas, the Edgartown Yacht Club has decided to move the Edgartown Race Weekend’s ‘Round-the-Island (‘RTI) Race from June back to the July time slot it has occupied for most of its 88 editions thus far.

The date for the 89th running of the ‘RTI is July 25, 2026. It is distinguished and highly revered as one of yacht racing’s oldest distance events.

“With this early announcement, we hope that all past participants will add this to their calendar early and spread the word so we can look forward to a strong showing,” said Event Co-Chair Cindy Alten-Delotto. “The currents are quite favorable for that date, and if this July’s winds are an indicator, we should be in good shape for plenty of wind and an exciting sail on the 55-mile course around Martha’s Vineyard.”

 Edgartown Race Weekend has moved from June to July for its 89th running next year. The date is July 25, 2026 © Stephen Cloutier

The ‘RTI is picturesque, challenging, and of a length that keeps veteran racing sailors intrigued while presenting first-timers with a perfect opportunity to try on offshore sailing for size. Lively shoreside parties and an early morning start with a same-day early evening finish mean the experience is not only festive but also manageable in terms of crew logistics.

Racing divisions are for PHRF Spinnaker, PHRF Non-Spinnaker, PHRF Doublehanded and Multi-Hull. Trophies include the prestigious Venona Trophy, which dates back to the origins of the race in 1938.

For more information on Edgartown Race Weekend, including the NOR, go to www.rtirace.org or contact Margaret Passafiume, raceadministrator@edgartownyc.org, (508) 627-4364 x18.

by Barby MacGowan