A good variety of races are put on to suit members' requirements, including Points series, Pursuit, Ladies and various Cups and Trophies.

Courses are modified to suit the wind and weather prevailing on the day and are normally confined to the River Blackwater, except for a two leg event to Harwich and back. All racing is conducted on a friendly more than fiercely competitive basis. As members' yachts differ widely a handicapping system is operated within the scope of the Portsmouth Yardstick rules with adjustment by the sailing committee following participation in three races per season.

The Menagerie race is traditionally the one for newcomers, but feel free to test your skills at any of them; it is up to you how much effort you want to put into it.