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Displaying items by tag: Kinsale Yacht Club

An 'ugly' sea state and a gale warning in operation have led to the cancellation of the second day of racing at Kinsale Yacht Club's Axiom April League on the south coast.

The league began last weekend for mixed cruisers in both Spinnaker and White Sail divisions as Afloat reported here.

On Friday evening, Storm Kathleen closed Kinsale Yacht Club's marina. Berth holders were asked to vacate the marina and refrain from staying overnight.

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Cian McCarthy and Sam Hunt were honoured at home on the Easter weekend by Kinsale Yacht Club, the West Cork club joining a long list of organisations that saluted the duo's Christmas 2003 achievements competing in Australia's Sydney Hobart Race.

After Monday's April league racing, Kinsale Commodore Anthony Scannell and cruiser-racer skipper Brian Carroll led tributes to the Sunfast 3300 'Cinnamon Girl' pair at a special KYC clubhouse gathering. 

The gathering included Poppy and Keith Hunt, who represented Sam, who was unable to attend.

Kinsale Yacht Club Commodore Anthony Scannell presents Cian McCarthy's wife Catherine with a bouquet Photo: Bob BatemanKinsale Yacht Club Commodore Anthony Scannell presents Cian McCarthy's wife Catherine with a bouquet Photo: Bob Bateman

As regular Afloat readers know, the duo were the keynote speakers at February's ICRA conference at Dun Laoghaire when they pair recalled the ' brutal experience' in parts, as Hunt recalled for Afloat here.

Cian McCarthy and Sam Hunt on board the Sunfast 3300 'Cinnamon Girl' Photo: AfloatCian McCarthy (left) and Sam Hunt on board the Sunfast 3300 'Cinnamon Girl' off the Dublin coast Photo: Afloat

In Irish offshore doublehanding sailing, few stories are as inspiring as that of Cian McCarthy, a dedicated sailor whose journey to success is marked by resilience, determination, and a passion for the open sea.

From relatively humble beginnings on Laser dinghies to triumphant victories in prestigious races, Cian's remarkable career has earned him admiration and respect within the sailing community, especially at home at Kinsale Yacht Club.

Poppy and Keith Hunt receive prizes on behalf of Sam Photo: Bob BatemanKeith (left) and Poppy Hunt receive prizes on behalf of Sam from Kinsale Yacht Club Commodore Anthony Scannell Photo: Bob Bateman

Cian's sailing odyssey began with Lasers, where his talent quickly caught the eye of Denis Doyle. Recognizing his potential, Doyle offered him a position on Moonduster, propelling Cian into the world of competitive sailing. It was on Moonduster that Cian completed a Round Ireland and participated in a series of Fastnet Races, laying the foundation for his future achievements.

In 2003-2004, Cian delved into Mini Transat racing aboard a boat named Tom Crean. Despite facing challenges along the way, he sailed Tom Crean with remarkable success until a rig loss brought an end to that chapter of his journey.

Undeterred, Cian's determination led him to the BT Challenge, where he crossed paths with his future wife, Catherine. His exceptional skills and dedication caught the attention of skipper Conrad Humphries, who promoted him to First Mate on L G Flatron. Cian played a pivotal role in their victory in the round-the-world race, earning accolades for his invaluable contributions.

In 2009, Cian embarked on a new venture, building a Class 40 yacht. However, the arrival of his identical triplet sons prompted him to sell the boat and shift his focus to family life.

The McCarthy family at Monday's KYC presentation Photo: Bob BatemanThe McCarthy family at Monday's KYC presentation Photo: Bob Bateman

Despite these changes, Cian's passion for sailing remained unwavering. He continued to pursue his love for the sport, participating in the X-yacht EOS and competing in challenging races such as the Fastnet Race and Round Ireland, often sailing two-handed.

In 2022, Cian's dedication and skill were once again on display as he entered and emerged victorious in the inaugural KYC Inishtearaght Race aboard Cinnamon Girl, racing two-handed with Sam. His success continued with a commendable second-place finish in the biennial Round Ireland Race, showcasing his prowess in navigating the most gruelling of conditions.

The Kinsale Yacht Club entry Cinnamon Girl sailed by Cian McCarthy and Sam Hunt berthed in Hobart after completing the 2023 Sydney-Hobart offshore raceThe Kinsale Yacht Club entry Cinnamon Girl sailed by Cian McCarthy and Sam Hunt berthed in Hobart after completing the 2023 Sydney-Hobart offshore race

A familiar sight in Kinsale Harbour, Cian can often be found training tirelessly, honing his skills in preparation for future challenges. His contributions to the sailing community have not gone unnoticed, as he is held in high esteem at KYC and beyond, admired for his ability to excel in the most demanding of conditions, as this recording of the Kinsale Yacht Club presentation (below) reveals.

As Cian's journey continues, his determination, resilience, and passion inspire sailors everywhere, proving that anything is possible on the open sea with perseverance and dedication.

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The Axiom Private Clients Spring Series 2024 at Kinsale Yacht Club got underway on Easter Monday with a fine turnout of over 30 cruisers and 1720 sportsboats in both the Spinnaker and Whitesail divisions.

The racing lived up to its pre-event promise to deliver an 'impressive lineup' of contenders following on from KYC's March Frank Godsell sponsored league, including visiting entries from Waterford Harbour Sailing Club, Royal Cork YC and Schull Harbour Sailing Club.

The series incorporates the SCORA League 2024.

Although raced under IRC and ECHO, the White Sails division is attracting strong interest. Alan Mulcahy's Albin Express Apache continued its strong form from March and finished top in IRC and ECHO in the nine-boat fleet, according to KYC's provisional results below.

Alan Mulcahy's Albin Express Apache is the IRC and ECHO White sail leader in Kinsale Yacht Club's Axiom Spring Cruiser Series Photo: Bob BatemanAlan Mulcahy's Albin Express Apache is the IRC and ECHO White sail leader in Kinsale Yacht Club's Axiom Spring Cruiser Series Photo: Bob Bateman

John O Connor's Impala 28 Fast Buck lies second on ECHO, and Patrick Beckett's Tofinou 8 Miss Charlie lies third.

In the spinnaker divisions, Kinsale Yacht Club says the first day's "results are being held over until next week to allow for redress".

Kinsale Yacht Club's 2024 Axiom Spring Cruiser Series Photo Gallery by Bob Bateman

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Kinsale Yacht Club is all set to host its Axiom Spring Series 2024 for sailing cruisers and one designs, which incorporates the SCORA League 2024, on Easter Monday, April 1st.

The event promises an 'impressive lineup' of contenders already signed up and following on from KYC's March Frank Godsell sponsored league, including entries from Waterford Harbour Sailing Club, RCYC, KYC, and Schull Harbour Sailing Club.

The Sailing Instructions for the event can be downloaded below, covering the Spinnaker, White Sail & 1720 Classes.

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The Frank Godsell March League 2024 for mixed cruisers at Kinsale Yacht Club that was cancelled last weekend due to 'adverse wind and sea conditions' will sail two races this Sunday to compensate.

Although racing under IRC and ECHO, the White Sails division is attracting the most interest, with Alan Mulcahy's Albin Express Apache finishing top in IRC and ECHO after the first races on March 11th.

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The Frank Godsell March League 2024 for mixed cruisers at Kinsale Yacht Club was cancelled on Monday, March 18, due to 'adverse wind and sea conditions'. 

Although racing under IRC and ECHO, the White Sails division is attracting the most interest, with Alan Mulcahy's Albin Express Apache finishing top in IRC and ECHO after the first races on March 11th.

Racing continues next Sunday. 

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The picturesque town of Kinsale Harbour in West Cork was packed with spectators over the weekend as it played host to the tenth annual St. Patrick's Maritime Festival. Despite a gloomy and wet day, the town was buzzing with excitement as the festival kicked off on Saturday night, March 16th. The highlight of the evening was the dazzling fireworks display, and yachts, boats and commercial craft lit up overall, which drew huge crowds from all over the region.

Kinsale Yacht Club Commodore Tony Scannell with Kinsale's St. Patrick's Maritime Festival organisers ahead of last night's maritime parade by boats and fireworks display Photo:  Bob BatemanKinsale Yacht Club Commodore Tony Scannell with Kinsale's St. Patrick's Maritime Festival committee ahead of last night's maritime parade by boats and fireworks display Photo:  Bob Bateman

As the gloomy day turned into a foggy evening, the organisers faced a difficult decision—whether to proceed with the parade and fireworks. However, they decided to take the plunge, and the event was a resounding success.

(L to R) Anthony Scannell, Commodore Kinsale Yacht Club, Celine Henderson of St. Patrick's Maritime Festival, James Lyons winning skipper and Aine Ryan O'Brien. Photo: Bob Bateman(L to R) Anthony Scannell, Commodore Kinsale Yacht Club, Celine Henderson of St. Patrick's Maritime Festival, James Lyons winning skipper and Aine Ryan O'Brien. Photo: Bob Bateman

Kinsale Yacht Club played an important role in the event, with members' boats involved in the on-the-water parade. The RNLI Kinsale lifeboat featured along with inshore and offshore fishing vessels, as well as yachts led by Kinsale Yacht Club Commodore Tony Scannell on board his yacht, "Hansemer." This resulted in a wonderful display as the boats emerged from the mist and passed by James' Fort. The coinciding fireworks provided great entertainment for all.

Commodore Scannell welcomed Festival organisers back to the clubhouse after the parade, where awards were presented to the best-dressed boats. 

Tenth Kinsale St. Patrick's Maritime Festival Photo Gallery by Bob Bateman

The logistics of putting on such a spectacular show were not without their challenges. The nearby Cork airport had to control permission for the fireworks display, which only gave a narrow window in which to hold it. However, the organisers pulled it off with aplomb, and the fireworks display was a true feast for the eyes.

The festivities kicked off at 7:30 pm, with participants gathering behind the Blockhouse to prepare for the parade. The procession began with a minute's silence in memory of Des Hurley, the Kinsale fisherman who passed away in December, setting the tone for a sombre yet celebratory occasion. 

Vid below by Mary Malone

Published in Kinsale

The 42nd annual Frank Godsell League kicks off this Sunday at Kinsale Yacht Club, located on the South Cork coastline.

The cruiser league will run for three weeks, with two more races to follow after Sunday's opening.

The next race will occur on Monday, March 18, the day after St. Patrick's Day, and the final race will occur on Sunday, March 24. The first gun for each day of the race will be at 13:55.

Kinsale Yacht Club is anticipating a strong turnout of boats for the event, which, according to them, is sponsored by Frank Godsell for a record 42nd consecutive year, a feat that is "surely unequalled anywhere."

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After 12 races sailed at Kinsale Yacht Club's 2024 Custom Rigging Frostbite Series, Ian Travers and Keith O'Riordan sailing Outlaw were crowned overall Squib keelboat division winners on 16 points, three points clear of Colm Dunne and Daniel McCloskey in Allegro.

KYC Club mates Harvey Tucker and Harvey Matthews in Fagan were third on 21. 11 competed.

Kinsale Frostbite Prizegiving 2024 - John Stallard, Principal Race Officer, Michele Kennelly (Sailing Secretary of Kinsale YC), Daniel McCloskey (Squib keelboat division second place crew), Harry Lewis (Custom Rigging Sponsor) and second-placed skipper Colm Dunne Photo: Bob BatemanKinsale Frostbite Prizegiving 2024 - John Stallard, Principal Race Officer, Michele Kennelly (Sailing Secretary of Kinsale YC), Daniel McCloskey (Squib keelboat division second place crew), Harry Lewis (Custom Rigging Sponsor) and second-placed skipper Colm Dunne Photo: Bob Bateman

Mixed dinghies

First in the mixed dinghies division after 11 races sailed was Mark O'Driscoll in the Laser 4.7 on 21. Second was Ben Fusco and Aisling Fiuza in an RS 400 on 28. Robert Hughes sailing a Laser 4.7 was third on 33. Five competed.

Mark O'Driscoll (left) was the Kinsale Yacht Club's Custom Rigging Frostbite Series mixed dinghies division winner and Rachel Bogue was the Topper class winner Photo: Bob BatemanMark O'Driscoll (left) was the Kinsale Yacht Club's Custom Rigging Frostbite Series mixed dinghies division winner and Rachel Bogue was the Topper class winner Photo: Bob Bateman

Toppers 

Rachel Bogue topped the four boat Topper fleet on 11 points, one point ahead of Fintan Tuohy with clubmate Ollie Lyons third on 15.

Kinsale Yacht Club Frostbite Prizegiving 2024 Photo Gallery by Bob Bateman

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Kinsale Yacht Club has cancelled racing on Sunday, 25th February, due to the adverse weather forecast. KYC Race Officer John Stallard will run the next Frostbite races for Squibs and dinghies sailing on Sunday, March 3rd.

Easterly winds are expected to gust to over 40 mph on Sunday morning.

Details of February's 11th racing at Kinsale are here

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The 2024 Vendée Globe Race

A record-sized fleet of 44 skippers are aiming for the tenth edition of the Vendée Globe: the 24,296 nautical miles solo non-stop round-the-world race from Les Sables d’Olonne in France, on Sunday, November 10 2024 and will be expected back in mid-January 2025.

Vendée Globe Race FAQs

Six women (Alexia Barrier, Clarisse Cremer, Isabelle Joschke, Sam Davies, Miranda Merron, Pip Hare).

Nine nations (France, Germany, Japan, Finland, Spain, Switzerland, Australia, and Great Britain)

After much speculation following Galway man Enda O’Coineen’s 2016 race debut for Ireland, there were as many as four campaigns proposed at one point, but unfortunately, none have reached the start line.

The Vendée Globe is a sailing race round the world, solo, non-stop and without assistance. It takes place every four years and it is regarded as the Everest of sailing. The event followed in the wake of the Golden Globe which had initiated the first circumnavigation of this type via the three capes (Good Hope, Leeuwin and Horn) in 1968.

The record to beat is Armel Le Cléac’h 74 days 3h 35 minutes 46s set in 2017. Some pundits are saying the boats could beat a sub-60 day time.

The number of theoretical miles to cover is 24,296 miles (45,000 km).

The IMOCA 60 ("Open 60"), is a development class monohull sailing yacht run by the International Monohull Open Class Association (IMOCA). The class pinnacle events are single or two-person ocean races, such as the Route du Rhum and the Vendée Globe.

Zero past winners are competing but two podiums 2017: Alex Thomson second, Jérémie Beyou third. It is also the fifth participation for Jean Le Cam and Alex Thomson, fourth for Arnaud Boissières and Jérémie Beyou.

The youngest on this ninth edition of the race is Alan Roura, 27 years old.

The oldest on this ninth edition is Jean Le Cam, 61 years old.

Over half the fleet are debutantes, totalling 18 first-timers.

The start procedure begins 8 minutes before the gun fires with the warning signal. At 4 minutes before, for the preparatory signal, the skipper must be alone on board, follow the countdown and take the line at the start signal at 13:02hrs local time. If an IMOCA crosses the line too early, it incurs a penalty of 5 hours which they will have to complete on the course before the latitude 38 ° 40 N (just north of Lisbon latitude). For safety reasons, there is no opportunity to turn back and recross the line. A competitor who has not crossed the starting line 60 minutes after the signal will be considered as not starting. They will have to wait until a time indicated by the race committee to start again. No departure will be given after November 18, 2020, at 1:02 p.m when the line closes.

The first boat could be home in sixty days. Expect the leaders from January 7th 2021 but to beat the 2017 race record they need to finish by January 19 2021.

Today, building a brand new IMOCA generally costs between 4.2 and €4.7million, without the sails but second-hand boats that are in short supply can be got for around €1m.

©Afloat 2020

Vendee Globe 2024 Key Figures

  • 10th edition
  • Six women (vs six in 2020)
  • 16 international skippers (vs 12 in 2020)
  • 11 nationalities represented: France, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Hungary, Japan, China, USA, New Zealand (vs 9 in 2020)
  • 18 rookies (vs 20 in 2020)
  • 30 causes supported
  • 14 new IMOCAs (vs 9 in 2020)
  • Two 'handisport' skippers

At A Glance - Vendee Globe 2024

The 10th edition will leave from Les Sables d’Olonne on November 10, 2024

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