The Royal Maritime Hotel was buzzing with excitement as the Uckers World Championships returned to the city on Saturday, hosted by the Royal Naval Association (RNA). This spirited event celebrates the traditional naval board game of Uckers, a beloved pastime among generations of Royal Navy personnel.
Players from across the country gathered to register, with the first dice rolling at 1000. The annual event was open to all – no qualification required – making it a welcoming and inclusive celebration of naval heritage and camaraderie.
Uckers, often described as a mix of strategy, luck, and banter, is played on a distinctive board with dice and coloured counters. Known for its competitive spirit and unique terminology, the game has long been a staple in mess decks and naval clubs.
The championship is supported by Uckers Ya Uckers and the Royal Maritime Hotel,
Spectators and players alike enjoyed the lively atmosphere, friendly rivalries, and shared stories of service and tradition.
Roland Jones, retired Royal Navy veteran from RNA Street won the first Snake-Eyes prize, he said,
“I have had a great day. I really miss this interaction, so the banter and camaraderie here is priceless.”
Winner of the Champion Single title was reigning champion, Stan Patterson. After an epic day of head-to-head rivalry, culminating with a rematch with Brent Latham, he triumphed after a brutal start involving snake eyes, and a brutal end, blocking Brent’s progress for much of the second half.
Doubles Champions were the Green Machine (Stan Patterson and Alex Cruikshanks, Royal Marine veterans) who were playing against The Matelot and his Civvy (Simon Mills and Oli Smith).
Players ranged in age from eleven years old to 83, bringing serving, veterans and families together for a day of fun and comradeship.
“This isn’t just a game – it’s a celebration of naval culture,” said Andy Christie, National Chairman of the RNA. “Uckers brings people together, and today’s championship is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Royal Navy community.”
If you are from a Naval background and would like to join the Royal Naval Association go to: royal-naval-association.co.uk/join-us
