An entry in the Round Ireland Yacht Race will be blessed in an interdenominational ceremony in Dun Laoghaire Harbour on Friday, prior to departing for the race.
The blessing of boats going to sea is an Irish tradition practiced all around the coast of Ireland.
The yacht is the 60 foot "Spirit of Rosslare Europort" that has competed in Round the World Races on four occasions, the fastest boat entered in the race.
The ceremony at Dun Laoghaire marina will be conducted by Fr John McDonagh from Dalkey and Rev. Gary Dowd from Glenageary.
More on the Round Ireland Yacht Race:
Round Ireland Yacht Race 2010 Review
Round Ireland Yacht Race, Ireland's top offshore fixture
A Round up of 80 stories on the 2010 Round Ireland Yacht Race