Women At The Helm 2026 will return to Dún Laoghaire from 12-14 June, combining competitive sailing with discussions on leadership, resilience and performance. Held as part of the National Yacht Club Regatta weekend, the event is expected to attract its largest participation to date. Organisers are aiming to break the record for the number of women helming boats in a single regatta race.
The three-day programme will bring together sailors, business leaders, sports advocates and first-time competitors in a celebration of leadership both on and off the water.
Proceedings begin on Friday, 12 June, with a Speakers' Supper at the National Yacht Club. Among the speakers will be sports psychologist Kate Kirby, who worked with Irish Olympic silver medallist Annalise Murphy ahead of the Rio 2016 Games, and solo offshore sailor Gráinne Costigan, who completed the Mini-Transat in 2025.
The evening will be hosted by former RTÉ broadcaster Bryan Dobson and will explore decision-making, resilience and performance under pressure.
The Women At The Helm Regatta takes place on Saturday, 13 June, with female sailors taking charge across a wide range of dinghies and keelboats. The event welcomes experienced racers, returning sailors and newcomers alike. Organisers hope to surpass the previous participation mark of almost 70 women helming boats.
Racing continues on Sunday, 14 June, before the weekend concludes with an awards ceremony recognising achievement, teamwork and leadership on the water.
The initiative is supported by global management consulting group Sia, with additional support discussions underway with Irish Sailing. Organisers say the event highlights how confidence, communication and leadership skills developed through sport can translate beyond the waterfront.
Set against the backdrop of Dublin Bay, Women At The Helm continues to promote greater visibility for women in sailing while celebrating Ireland's strong maritime tradition.
