Altea to host 2026 ORC Double-Handed European Championship
by Offshore Racing Congress 17 May 2025 02:02 PDT
1–7 March 2026
200 Millas a2 2025 © Julia Matosastorgano
The Offshore Racing Congress (ORC), in collaboration with Altea Sailing Club (Club Náutico Altea – CN Altea), is happy to welcome double-handed sailing teams to the 2026 ORC Double-Handed European Championship, taking place in Altea, Spain, from March 1-7, 2026. The fourth edition of this ORC title event will be sailed in conjunction with the Mediterranean's most iconic winter regatta - 200 Millas a2, celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2026.
ORC is excited to join this classic winter race—one of the most demanding and prestigious events on both the national and international sailing calendars.
Since its inaugural race in 1987, the 200 Millas a2 has become a benchmark in offshore winter sailing. Its double-handed format and 200-nautical mile course in the challenging winter conditions of the Mediterranean provide a unique test for both seasoned sailors and rising offshore talents.
"After crowning our Double-Handed World Champions in Barcelona in 2023, ORC is thrilled to return to Spain for the DH European Championship in 2026. The 40th anniversary of the 200 Millas a2 marks a perfect opportunity to celebrate the strength and spirit of double-handed offshore sailing. We look forward to a competitive and memorable event in the beautiful setting of Altea," said Bruno Finzi, Chairman of the ORC.
"The 40th anniversary is a milestone not only for the Altea Sailing Club but also for the entire European sailing community. Hosting the ORC Double-Handed European Championship is a testament to the prestige this event has earned over four decades," said Francisco Fresneda Segura, President of CN Altea.
A Legendary Regatta
Over the years, the 200 Millas a2 has attracted top national and international sailors, combining sportsmanship, tactical skill, and endurance against the unpredictable winter conditions of the Mediterranean. Teams from across Europe have already expressed strong interest in participating in this landmark edition.
The organizers remain firmly committed to sustainability, safety, and the promotion of nautical culture—values that have defined the Altea Sailing Club since its founding in 1977.
Altea: More Than Just a Race
Beyond the competition, Altea offers sailors and their companions a privileged destination. Its old town, with cobbled streets and iconic blue-domed churches, Mediterranean ambiance, excellent gastronomy, and renowned hospitality, makes every visit unforgettable. The bay of Altea, framed by the Sierra de Bernia and the Serra Gelada Natural Park, provides breathtaking scenery both at sea and on land. The town also boasts a wide range of accommodations and cultural and sporting activities to enjoy before and after the regatta.
Preliminary Schedule and Format
The regatta kicks off with registration and measurement on 1-2 March, followed by the Opening Ceremony on 2 March. The Short Offshore Race starts on 3 March, and a Regatta Crew Fellowship Dinner takes place on 4 March. The Long Offshore Race begins on 5 March and continues through 6-7 March, with the Prizegiving Ceremony closing the event on 7 March. The long offshore race is expected to last 48-60 hours, and the short race approximately 8-10 hours for the slowest boat.
The 2026 ORC Double-Handed European Championship titles will be awarded in three ORC classes, based on boat performance. In addition to class winners, special awards will be given to the best-performing Female, Mixed Offshore, and Male teams.
Registrations Now Open
Teams can now register through the official regatta website (www.200millasa2.com). Early registration is strongly recommended due to the high demand expected for this special edition.
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