Four Seasons in one event in Skerries

Four Seasons in one event in Skerries

Sunshine light airs and sunburn were on the agenda on Saturday in Skerries.

PRO Liam Dinane had this work cut out for time but managed to achieve 2 races in difficult conditions. After the wind swung by 45 degrees moving the windward mark towards the harbour a third race was started in the junior fleet after a general recall but was abandoned shortly afterwards as the wind dropped away once again.

Sunday was a completely different event with heavy winds. The three races of the day gave the heavy weather sailors a chance to show their stuff while less experiences sailors were in shock not having experienced wind this season.

In the Senior fleet Trials winner Peter Mc Cann (RCYC) narrowly pipped fellow club mate Seafra Guilfoyle (RCYC) to the podium. Followed by Munsters winner Sean Donnelly (NYC) and Top Girl Jill Mc Ginley (RCYC)  in 4th and Philip Brownlow (RCYC)  in 5^th.

In the Junior Fleet a more convincing win by Daire Cournane (KYC) would not have been possible winning all 5 races. Robert Dickson was once again 2^nd (HYC). Sandy Aplin (RsGYC) and Fergus Flood (HYC) were on equal points with Sandy narrowly taking the 3^rd position. Rising star Daniel Raymond was 5^th (1^st Silver) and will now be promoted to the Gold fleet.

The 38 strong regatta fleet had mixed conditions at the Leinsters in Skerries recently.  Day one saw the large fleet divided into 7 groups led by Katie Malcolm Head instructor and supported by Katie White Deputy instructor.  Skerries very kindly supplied 5 local instructors to help the group. The regatta fleet had light conditions on the first day and after a period of training they completed 2 races.  Day two saw a heavier breeze but the youngsters remained enthusiastic & confident.  Shortly after taking to the water a windy squall came through causing the regatta fleet to head to shore.  They completed the day with a series of fun races ashore and on the beach.  All were suitably wet & tired by the end of a very successful & enjoyable regatta.

Full results can be viewed on   http://www.iodai.com/live/results/

Details of the next event the Optimist Ulster Championships in Ballyholme Yacht Club (26th & 27th June) will be posted on the website shortly.

The Regatta Fleet at Skerries Sailing Club