The Beaufort Cup returns to Cork Week this week as international military and emergency service crews prepare to contest the unique inter-services regatta, now in its 10th year. Launched in 2016 as a joint initiative between the Defence Forces and the Royal Cork Yacht Club under the patronage of then Defence Minister Simon Coveney, the event combines competitive racing with international cooperation afloat.
The Beaufort fleet comprises uniformed services and organisations whose crews comprise at least 50% serving or affiliated personnel. This year's entry is expected to be one of the strongest yet, despite ongoing international conflicts that are limiting participation by some overseas teams.
The Irish Defence Forces return to defend the title won in 2024 aboard the J/109 Artful DodJer, while the Royal Navy fields the Sun Fast 3600 Sovereign in another bid for overall honours.
Former Defence Minister Simon Coveney will compete aboard the Corby 34.7 Waterfront, representing CaraDem.
Baltimore RNLI returns to the regatta for the first time since the inaugural event, racing the J/109 Storm under Robert O'Leary. Dún Laoghaire RNLI has teamed up with Justin Burke's JPK 1030 ReQuest for this year's challenge.
The regatta opens with its signature offshore race from Haulbowline Naval Base to the Fastnet Rock and back. The race starts at 1000 on Monday, with the traditional cannon signalling the fleet away. To follow the Beaufort Cup fleet, click here for the race tracker.
After the offshore contest, competitors rejoin Cork Week for Wednesday's Harbour Race, followed by a coastal race on Thursday and windward-leeward racing on Friday. The event continues to provide high-quality competition while strengthening relationships between participating services through sailing.
