With just over a week to go until the start of the 2026 Round Ireland Race, Wicklow Harbour is preparing to welcome one of the largest offshore racing fleets seen in recent years.
More than 60 Irish and international entries are expected on the start line for the 704-nautical-mile contest, which begins from Wicklow at 2pm on Saturday, June 20.
As Afloat has reported, the biennial classic has attracted a strong mix of professional sailors, seasoned offshore campaigners and Corinthian crews. Several former race winners, leading Irish IRC contenders and international challengers are among a fleet that organisers believe could produce one of the most competitive editions in decades.
The non-stop race circles the entire island of Ireland. Competitors leave Wicklow, round the Fastnet, head north along the Atlantic seaboard, pass Malin Head and return south through the North Channel before finishing back in Wicklow.
While the first boat home claims line honours, the coveted overall title is decided on corrected time, often allowing smaller yachts to challenge larger and faster rivals.
The western coast of Ireland has traditionally proved decisive. Weather systems sweeping in from the Atlantic can transform the leaderboard, while tidal gates at key points of the course have frequently rewarded patient navigation and punished costly mistakes.
Race Director Kyran O'Grady said preparations for the start are progressing well.
"Everything is coming together nicely for a terrific start that will be a spectacle," he said.
"It's still a little early to be certain but there are positive signs of fine conditions for start day at least."
Among the headline entries is the 57-foot sail-training vessel Spirit of Shackleton, entered by Enda O'Coineen and Bobby Beggs. Offshore racer Pamela Lee returns aboard her Class 40 Empowher, joined by several international competitors.
One of the most closely watched campaigns will be that of Britain's Tom Kneen aboard Sunrise VI. Kneen arrives in Wicklow with an impressive offshore racing pedigree and is widely regarded as one of the leading contenders for overall honours.
However, Irish hopes are strong. John Treanor's Cristina from Dún Laoghaire, Mike Evans' The Big Picture from Howth, Wicklow's own Ely Syd from Greystones and Ian Hickey's double winner Cavatina are among the boats expected to feature prominently in the corrected-time battle.
Several entries have already withdrawn due to equipment issues, underlining the demanding nature of the race before a boat even reaches the start line. All competitors must complete final safety inspections before being cleared to race.
Hundreds of spectators are expected in Wicklow for the colourful fleet departure and the sprint south towards Wicklow Head, marking the beginning of one of Irish sailing's most testing offshore challenges.
