The International Mirror Class Association of Ireland and Clontarf Yacht and Boat Club are hosting an information evening for parents and others interested in Junior Sailing in the Dublin region on Thursday the 19th June at 8.30 pm in the Clontarf Yacht & Boat Clubhouse.
A panel from the Association will make a presentation on the benefits of participation in the events on the National Circuit which it promotes in conjunction with host clubs around the Country.
The Mirror was once the country's largest dinghy fleet, with support centres around the country, and a series of regional regattas drawing over 100 boats each. However, competition from other fibreglass dinghy classes have seen that drop rapidly in recent years, with just 16 boats competing in the most recent regional event in Killyleagh.
The class hopes to turn this around, and recently approved changes in the Mirror Class rules have seen the introduction of a single piece mast and a new GRP boat built by Winder Boats in the UK.
A similar rule change in the Fireball class, now built in Kevlar-reinforced GRP by Winder, saw an enormous resurgence in the class, with maintenance reduced to nil and boats retaining their resale value for longer.
It is hoped that the Association will have the demonstration Winder boat which it has recently acquired on display at the meeting.
Advice and guidance on the availability and purchase of good quality second hand boats will also be offered.
The IMCAI hopes that the evening will help and encourage more families whose children have participated in the ISA Sail Training schemes and others to make the transition to competitive Regatta Racing and to a long term commitment to the sport of sailing.
All sailing clubs in the region are asked to let any interested parents or other members know of the presentation and to ask them to come along on the evening.
