Historic Fastnet Race winner Tally Ho received a memorable homecoming to Irish waters on Friday evening when a flotilla of 34 traditional and sailing boats escorted the famous yacht into Baltimore Harbour, West Cork.
The 48-foot gaff-rigged cutter, winner of the 1927 Fastnet Race, arrived after completing the Atlantic crossing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, as part of her return voyage to Britain ahead of the centenary of her famous Fastnet victory in 2027.
The welcome was organised after Baltimore publican and sailing enthusiast Bill Hillyard, co-owner of The Algiers, invited skipper Leo Sampson Goolden and his crew to call into the West Cork village.
Leading the escort was renowned boatbuilder Liam Hegarty aboard Saoirse, the faithful replica of Conor O'Brien's famous yacht, while dozens of local sailors and traditional wooden boats joined the procession into the harbour. Around 100 people gathered on the pier to welcome the arrival, including Baltimore Sailing Club Commodore Ruth Field and Vice Commodore Mark Hegarty.
Historic Escort — Liam Hegarty aboard Saoirse leads part of the welcoming flotilla as Tally Ho enters Baltimore Harbour. Photo: Aedan Coffey
The visit grew from Hillyard's long-standing admiration for the restoration project. Before entering the hospitality industry, he spent time restoring and sailing traditional wooden boats in Hawaii and had followed Tally Ho's progress throughout the rebuild.
Speaking after the arrival, Hillyard said the occasion had exceeded expectations.
"Watching Tally Ho sail into Baltimore Harbour was a very special moment. I've followed Leo's restoration from the very beginning and admired the dedication that brought the yacht back to life. To see that journey bring her to Baltimore, a village with such a deep maritime tradition and such strong connections to the Fastnet Race, has been incredibly rewarding."
Goolden said returning to Baltimore had been a highlight of the voyage.
"It's wonderful to be back in Baltimore. I have very happy memories of sailing here many years ago, so it was a pleasure to return with Tally Ho and receive such a warm welcome."
Warm Welcome — Bill Hillyard presents Leo Sampson Goolden with a commemorative gift following Tally Ho's arrival in Baltimore. Photo: Aedan Coffey
Tally Ho will remain in Baltimore until Monday before continuing her voyage to Britain.
The visit has drawn classic yacht enthusiasts from around Ireland and adds another chapter to one of sailing's best-known restoration stories.
Rock Star — Tally Ho passes Fastnet Rock as the restored 1927 Fastnet Race winner returns to Irish waters. Photo: Aedan Coffey
