The Harbour Dash - Tradition, Community and a Cause!

Every year, Weymouth and Portland’s watersports community comes together for one of the most iconic local events – the Harbour Dash. The race challenges competitors to sail, wing or windsurf from Overcombe Beach to Portland Harbour and back, creating an electric mix of competition, camaraderie, and charity.

The event is happening tomorrow, registration is at 1pm, with the race starting at 3pm. Sailors need to be comfortable sailing seven nauticle miles in open sea.

By Emma Maguire.

Sailors line up on the start line of The Iconic Harbour Dash race!

Clay Yelland said: “I’d encourage anyone to take part in the Harbour Dash. It’s such a fun experience racing from Overcombe Beach to Portland Harbour and back with the whole local water sports community. And the best part is, while you’re enjoying the event, you’re also helping raise money for charity – so it’s a win-win for everyone!”

The OTC Pro-Rider Scotty Stallman at The Harbour Dash!

The Harbour Dash has been running for decades, with its roots stretching back to the late 1980s and early 1990s. For many locals, it’s become a tradition.

The Official Test Centre Pro-Rider, Scotty Stallman (pictured above) said: “The Dash has been, and still is a very special event for us guys down at Weymouth and Portland,” he recalls. “It’s always nice to see everyone gathering down at Overcombe ready for the challenge every year with new and old faces being present. Nick Dempsey has the record for the fastest time windsurfing – so let’s see if it gets broken this year! I’ll be ready, that’s for sure. And for it to be for a cause like the Will Houghton Foundation makes it a really worthwhile event.”

Wind Foilers at the ready at The Harbour Dash

Part of the appeal is the inclusivity – it’s not just for seasoned racers.

“Easy,” says Kevin Greenslade, the Harbour Dash is not only one of the oldest events in the British windsurfing calendar, but also great fun. It gives people of all abilities the opportunity to perhaps go outside their comfort level, but in a safe environment with others. Hope to see you there.”

Setting off at Overcombe Beach the start of The Harbour Dash!

Who will break the record this year? Will it be you?

Michael George said: " The harbour dash is a fun challenge for anyone and everyone; weekend warrior to olympic legend. Whether your goal is simply to finish the course or perhaps break the record, you'll have an awesome time!"

Participants gather round for the Harbour Dash briefing.

The OTC Team Rider, Scott Norman said: It’s the perfect event! Not only are you sailing somewhere you may not usually sail, but you also have safety cover and people who share the same passion! It’s a no brainer especially as you can raise money through doing what we all love!"

The Harbour Dash continues to thrive because it blends challenge, fun and purpose. It celebrates the joy of being on the water while raising funds for good causes – this year supporting the Will Houghton Foundation. Whether you’re racing for the record, pushing your limits for the first time, or simply soaking up the buzz from the beach, the Harbour Dash remains a highlight of the local watersports calendar.

THE ICONIC HARBOUR DASH WILL BE HAPPENING TOMORROW! REGISTRATION 1pm. RACE STARTS AT 3pm.

The Dash begins with a Le Mans-style start at Overcome beach with competitors racing across Weymouth bay into the North shipping channel of Portland Harbour, out of the East channel and back to Overcombe beach. There is a suggested entry donation of £25.00, with all proceeds going to WHF. To enter contact The Official Test Centre (OTC) on 07817 717904 or just turn up on the day! There will be a card machine on the day or a donation bucket. Sailors must be comfortable sailig seven nautical miles in open seas.