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 

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