The rejuvenated Mirror dinghy class is ready to kick off 2024 in Blessington on 27-28 April, whether you have the latest Winder racing unit or the wooden beauty your granddad built in his garage.
Is it the fun, the intergenerational learning, and the hope to take a race away from seasoned sailors (even former Olympians) that is driving the rebirth? Or is it simply the only class that can be all-inclusive, with young kids learning, teenagers perfecting their skills, adults reliving old glories, basically boys and girls from 7 to 77?
All ages can compete in a Mirror dinghy with young kids learning, teenagers perfecting their skills, adults reliving old glories, basically boys and girls from 7 to 77
Entry link and NOR to the Easterns are here
The new committee led by Lough Derg YC Dave Maher is a mix of seasoned parents and experienced sailors with only one goal in mind: giving back to the class its place as a versatile little double hander introducing kids to sailing and growing teenagers to better double handers sailors. The committee is well represented nationally and is also made up of the following enthusiastic parents:
- Thomas Chaix – National Yacht Club
- Ger Owens – Wicklow Sailing Club
- Liz Greer – Sligo Yacht Club
- Judy O’Doherty – Lough Derg Yacht Club
- Mike Flynn – Blessington Sailing Club
- Stuart Nelson – Blessington Sailing Club
- Emmet Duffy – Lough Ree Yacht Club
- Leah Cullen – Lough Ree Yacht Club
- David Maxwell – Mullingar Sailing Club
The class is also priding itself on making every effort to keep sailing and racing small boats affordable with managed entry fees, building a second-hand market of affordable boats, and rewarding classic boats at events (so get them out of the garages; they are dry and light by now!). The class is looking for boats and parts that have been forgotten in clubs and sheds to join the two-class Winder boats to support the development of various club and class projects as well as build the affordable second-hand market. Simply contact the IMCAI if you are willing to donate or wish to sell your boat. Or if you have any Mirror parts that you no longer need, we have some young enthusiastic sailors that could do with the support!
(Above and below) Sailing with Dad - Intergenerational learning in the Mirror dinghy
The IMCAI has 2 class boats available to charter at all class events and can be booked on the new website. If your club is looking to promote the class, get in touch so we can make the boats available and support the initiative.
The class is also looking at providing help and coaching at events to newcomers, helping them progress and grow their racing skills. Seasoned sailors are always willing to help and share tricks and tweaks informally and, from time to time, will deliver the "how the race was won" talk to the fleet after racing.
The 2024 Irish Mirror dinghy calendar
