Open Belgian Nationals – Copper Cup

Blankenberge, Belgium, May 25, 2026. Final results after 6 races (1 discard):

1. Jan Peeters & Nathalie Janssens, 9
2. Manu Hens & Alexandre Tinoco, 10
3. Sam Vandormael & Daan Vandormael, 13
4. Dirk de Bock & Sofia Lettenbichler, 24
5. Thomas van Hoeylandt & Floriane le Floch, 33

Copper Cup – Open Belgian Championship – European Trophy Sailing Circuit

Report by Herman Vandormael

Blankenberge 23-25/05/2026

This year the Copper Cup, a Snipe classic, moved east on the Belgian coast to the city of Blankenberge. The regatta also served as Open Belgian Championship as well as the Belgian leg for the inaugural Snipe European Trophy Sailing Circuit. The Snipes were joined by Finns and Fireballs, two other classes that are also going through a remarkable revival. 53 boats took part with Snipe the biggest fleet counting 23 entries, including boats from the UK, Germany and Poland.

On day one the wind didn’t show up and in the early afternoon the PRO called it a day, so people could enjoy beach and town. It was the right decision as the wind never came through. 

Sunday started with a postponement, but the wind came in slowly. The PRO called the launch and by the time everyone reached the starting vessel there was enough wind to race. Four races were completed in a breeze that gradually built to 12 knots. 

On the last day the wind again took its time to fill in but in the end two more races were completed in challenging but fair conditions. The last race started 15 minutes before the time limit expired.  

At the top of the fleet the competition was close. Deserved winners and Belgian Champions are Jan Peeters & Nathalie Janssens, 1 point ahead of Manu Hens and Alexandre Tinoco. In third place came Sam & Daan Vandormael, last year’s champions.

The sailors were enthusiastic about the new location and the race management. The three classes never mixed and waiting times between the races were limited. In short, a good foundation to secure the future of this classic event. Our friends from abroad who came this year will recommend it when asked.

Belgian Nationals: Behind the Scenes