Cowes-based crews will take on national competition this Summer as Goodall Roofing sponsors the 2026 Sonata National Championship on the Solent.
Island roofing specialists Goodall Roofing has been announced as the official title sponsor of the 2026 Sonata National Championship, taking place from 16th–19th August.
The prestigious sailing event, raced in 23ft one-design Hunter Sonata boats with crews of 4 or 5, will see multiple Isle of Wight teams — many based in Cowes — competing against top sailors from across the UK and Ireland.
Marking the Sonata class’ 50th anniversary, this year’s championship will be hosted by the Royal Southern Yacht Club on the River Hamble, bringing together a strong fleet for 4 days of competitive racing and celebrations.
As title sponsor, Goodall Roofing — an award-winning Isle of Wight firm — will support the event both on and off the water.
Luke Goodall, owner of Goodall Roofing, has said:
“The One Design element of the Hunter Sonata is the thing that keeps the racing super close and exciting. As a company with strong ties to the community and a passion for supporting British sporting excellence, Goodall Roofing is proud to support the Sonata in its 50th Anniversary year.”
“We had a great time supporting the 2021 Nationals in Cowes, and I look forward to competing against many other teams from around the country back on the Solent.”
Article continues below this advertisement “As the roofing specialist for English Heritage in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, racing in front of an iconic building like Osborne House will bring work and pleasure under one roof.”
Sonata Class Association Chairman Alistair Bolton added:
“We are thrilled to welcome Goodall Roofing back as our Title Sponsor for the 2026 Nationals. Their commitment to the Sonata Class Association truly helps us to deliver a great Championship, and we look forward to racing around their very own racing mark that is out in the Solent.”
Teams will compete for the coveted Pimms Trophy and the title of Sonata National Champion.
Reigning champion Joe Cross will return with Team Duette to defend his crown, facing strong competition from 19-time national champion Steve Goacher and his ‘Eric the Boat’ crew, as well as 2021 winner Max Richardson of Cowes-based ‘Little Scarlet’.
Joe Cross said:
“Team Duette are looking forward to defending our title at the 50th Anniversary Nationals, along with one of my crew who can boast competing in the fourth Nationals back in 1980.”
“Serial Champion Steve Goacher will be gunning to regain the title, along with multiple top teams from across the country, so it looks set to be a hotly contested championship.”
“There are strong local fleets in the Solent, Poole and Weymouth, which could deliver a bumper turnout. Hopefully, the 50-boat target will be achieved — it would be great to see so many Sonatas on the start line.”
Racing on the Solent will once again test crews against strong tidal currents and challenging local weather conditions, making it one of the UK’s most demanding sailing venues.
The Sonata Association is also offering 3 free entries and a small bursary for Under-25 teams (with 1 crew member permitted to be over 25), with applications open until 1st May via video submission.
Further details, including entry information and the Notice of Race, can be found at www.sonata.org.uk.
