Vakaros RaceSense start system launches new era for the International Dragon class
Vakaros is proud to announce a new partnership with the International Dragon Association, bringing the Vakaros RaceSense start system to one of the most iconic and enduring fleets in sailing.
The International Dragon Class, a cornerstone of one-design keelboat racing for nearly a century, will officially implement RaceSense into its class rules beginning April 1, 2026. The technology will debut on the racecourse at the Dragon Grand Prix Sanremo, hosted by the historic Yacht Club Sanremo from April 15–18.
For Vakaros, the partnership represents an important step in bringing modern race management technology to some of the sport’s most respected and competitive fleets.
“Working with the Dragon Class is a major milestone for us,” said Doug Wake. “A class with this legacy deserves the very best in race management technology. RaceSense is designed to make racing fairer, faster and better, and we’re excited to see it enhancing competition in such a storied fleet. We can’t wait to get on the water in Sanremo.”
The Dragon Class continues to thrive on the international stage, with strong participation across its global calendar and one of the most anticipated seasons in recent history ahead. The class is preparing for a packed 2026 schedule, culminating in what is expected to be the largest-ever Dragon World Championship, set to take place in Hong Kong.
RaceSense will play a key role in managing the class’s large and competitive fleets, delivering powerful race management capabilities including:
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Enhanced GPS tracking
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Real-time race data and analytics
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Automated On Course Side detection
Early implementations of RaceSense across multiple fleets have already demonstrated its ability to create cleaner starts and improve both fairness and efficiency on the racecourse.
Throughout the 2026 season, RaceSense will support Dragon events around the world, including the Dragon European Championship in Helsinki and the Dragon World Championship in Hong Kong, as well as a series of Grand Prix regattas across Europe.
By adopting RaceSense, the Dragon Class shows how even the most historic fleets can embrace innovation to enhance the racing experience for sailors, race officials and fans alike, and Vakaros is proud to be part of that evolution.
