The X One Design (XOD) was designed in 1907 with the first boat launched in 1909. It is 21-foot ¾ decked keelboat of carvel construction. A very strong boat, several launched in 1911 are still racing today. The design has proved itself over the years allowing sailors of all ages, from teenagers to octogenarians to race with equal success. Gradually, over the years, modernisation has been approved with the biggest changes being Gaff to Bermuda rig and more recently the use of Epoxy being permitted. This has resulted in many of the earlier boats being rejuvenated, enabling them to match newer boats, not only for speed but also finish. With numbers nearing 200, and all the boats based between Poole and Itchenor, it is the strongest South Coast One Design class.
The cost of ownership is not high and, with epoxy coated hulls, maintenance can be minimal or as much as you like to spend. X's have always outlived their owners, unlike many modern racing yachts which in less than 10 years lose their competitiveness, mainly due to their light construction. The Class Association have published a new document "The X Factor" - click here for the electronic version.
The Lymington XOD Fleet sails under the burgee of the Royal Lymington Yacht Club. The Harbour Authorities have established heritage moorings for the class on the East side of the river, an impressive sight for all. The racing is superb for all from gentle family sailors to Olympic hotshots.
The XOD is the largest keelboat racing fleet at the Royal Lymington Yacht Club with over 40 active boats. Racing is very competitive throughout the fleet. Our successful sailors are always willing to help those new to the class and those at the back of the fleet to find more speed. An XOD responds to finetuning and this tests everyone from time to time, even successful owners have days of "go slows".
Tea is organised after both Saturday and Wednesday afternoon racing where competitors and race officers get together in a friendly atmosphere.
The Royal Lymington Yacht Club has a full fixture list with racing for all every week. Boats from Yarmouth regularly join us to swell the number of boats coming to the start line. XODs race in our Spencers New Forest Thursday Evening Racing Series; this is a very popular series and gives us all a chance of winding down with a good social get-together after the race. Find key dates in our Calendar or download printable 2023 XOD series calendar here.
Saturday 8 June thru Wednesday 12 June, 2024
2024 Alastair Easton & Bobby Bongers Open Events
Thursday Night Racing
incl. 2024 racing charts
Including links to NOR and SIs for 2024
2024 date and details TBD. Click for photos of 2023 event.
Join the Lymington XOD Division
Images from the 2023 Annual XOD Dinner and Prize-giving.
List of all XOD trophies
Images and information from previous seasons
The XOD fleet is keen to welcome new members of any age. Sharing is very successful and ensures better usage. Dinghy sailors thinking of moving on to a keel boat and still looking for competitive family sailing at a reasonable cost should try an XOD. If you would like to crew, please e-mail either Shaun Norris or Chris Hawes via the Club Office and provide details of your sailing experience and availability. They will either be able to introduce you straight away to a helm looking for crew or will keep your details and match them to any request they may receive later in the season to fill a vacancy.
Captain of XODs: Paul Woodman ([email protected]) Join the Lymington XOD Facebook Group to see updates (race reports and pictures) as soon as they are posted to the group. Click here for Lymington XOD Facebook group.
X One Design Class Association: www.xonedesign.org.uk
Class Rules Obtainable from XOD Class Association Secretary - or see the Class Association website (link above)
Cowes Hamble Itchenor Parkstone Yarmouth
Reserve a table in advance to avoid disappointment.
We welcome new members throughout the year!