The annual "Midsummer Madness" racing and Barbeque took place on Friday at the Royal Cork Yacht Club in Crosshaven.  There was no racing on Thursday night as the last races of Union Chandlery June League and Victoria Cross Cycles Whitesail Summer League both took place on the night instead as did the Motor Cruisers treasure hunt around the harbour writes Claire Bateman. All boat owners that took to the water were entered in the Marine Motors sponsored annual draw for the magnificent prize of a 2.5hp Mariner outboard engine and the evening saw a splendid turn out of 40 yachts.SCROLL DOWN FOR BOB BATEMAN'S PHOTOS.

Adrielle was on station in her refurbished state with the crew still putting finishing touches to the portholes and mighty fine she looked too.   Martin Almond and the Race Team sent the cruisers on course 93, two rounds for Class One and one for the other classes plus a course for the Whitesail fleet that included a beat out to number 6.  As that fleet came around number 6 they were met by the other fleets coming in the harbour and it was nearly as busy as Piccadilly Circus.  Nobody minded as they had a lovely 6 to 8 kts southerly breeze to make for very enjoyable sailing and made the most of the evening.

Aprés sailing there was a rush to get back to the club, for once not to have to get in out of the weather but this time the rush was to grab a seat and enjoy their  barbeque food in the outside Patio dining area.  I hasten to add the club was also jammed to the hilt as the sailors awaited the call to announce results and prize giving.  While waiting the sound of great live music floated over Crosshaven and it was just one tremendous summer evening of sailing and fun.

At last the moment arrived and Vice Admiral Peter Deasy sounded the call to arms and Rear Admiral Ronan Enright warned anyone not present outside for the prize giving would not be considered for the draw for  the Marine Motors engine  which prompted a dash to the patio area. After the Leagues prize giving three tickets were drawn. Tim O'Mahony from the O'Shea/Durcan T Bone, Michael Wallace of Felix and Derry Nash of Catalpa were the tree names.  Two of the three would get bottles of champagne with the last remaining name getting the engine.  Derry Nash turned out to be the lucky punter and was thrilled with his luck on the night.

Next Thursday night a new sponsor, the very well known Timberland, will be on board for the July league. Racing will take place on July 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th. The company is offering a 20% discount on their products for RCYC members on production of their membership cards.