Being family-oriented, encouraging sailing that combines good racing with leisure, is at the heart of Calves Week in Schull, West Cork, where there are already sixteen boats on the entry list for the event in August.
Mark Murphy, Communications and Sponsorship Officer of the organisers, Schull Harbour Sailing Club, said at the launch announcement that this was the basis of the success of the event.
“There is strong annual support from boat owners, families, who make this a sailing and holiday week, and that is something we value. We combine good racing with enjoyment, offering an event where there are a variety of courses, including sailing around islands and no pressure of having to start too early in the morning! Sailing is to be enjoyed at Calves Week.”
The decision a few years ago to shorten the week has proven to be successful, he said. There are already fourteen boats entered for this year’s event, which runs from Tuesday, August 4 to Friday, August 7. “There is always strong support from the East Coast. A couple of Class Zeros are already committed to coming down,” Mark Murphy said.
Calves Week is again part of the combined league run throughout the season by SCORA, the South Coast Offshore Racing Association.
Quintas Capital is the main sponsor this year. Kevin MacSweeney, the company’s Head of Management Equity, said it is a community event, which is a major part of its attraction. “It is about family and community. Sailing is a really impressive sport to support.”
Notice of Race is published, and online entry is available on the Schull Harbour SC website: shsc.ie
Podcast below with Kevin MacSweeney and, first, Mark Murphy, who both stressed the importance of family interest in sailing.
