After almost one year off the race course, NYC’s 29er sailors travelled to Crosshaven with great determination to take part in the 2021 AIB 29er national Championships 3-4 July.
The two-day event was a success: sailing conditions were better than forecast with little rain and most of the ten-race series was held in 12-15 knots on the Curlane Bank, Cork Harbour. Winds were shifty though, and with six races back-to-back covering over 60km of distance on Saturday and four races on Sunday, the sailors’ fitness and stamina were truly tested. The fifteen-boat 29er fleet is growing steadily and NYC’s representatives did their club proud.
place overall (3rd Youth), only being beaten on countback by RSGYC sisters Emily and Jessica Riordan who took 4th (2nd Youth). NYC’s Lauren O’Callaghan provided a solid performance with RSGYC crew Elysia O’Leary reaching 11th place. Helm Rachel Flood got off to a good start until crew Lily Dwyer was injured and had to retire after the second race on Saturday. Rachel showed her grit by taking on a new crew for Sunday and completed the series as Lily recovered well on land.
RCYC member and World Sailing Vice President Marcus Spillane, a former President of the International skiff class, spoke to the sailors at prizegiving, encouraging the youngsters to continue to train, race and take every opportunity to compete abroad.
The 2021 Nationals were preceded by the first ever nationwide 29er clinic 28/6-01/07 in excellent breeze and superb sunshine under RCYC head coach Ben Fusco with Thomas Chaix and Sean Donnelly.
Many thanks to RCYC for all their hard work in running such a safe and enjoyable event where all the sailors especially appreciated being back with their friends both on and off the water.
Results of AIB 29er national Championships: https://www.sailwave.com/results/29er%20Nationals%202021.htm
