As the early bird deadline passed, the entry for the ICRA National Championship has climbed beyond 60, well ahead of entries at the same stage in recent memory writes Dave Cullen. There are still plenty of teams expected to join in the fun that have yet to enter so the signs are we are on for a very well attended event, with keen competition in all divisions.
A dozen boats are already entered from the Irish RC35 fleet. 6 J109s make up the core of those numbers including ICRA Commodore Richard Colwell and Outrajeous, the Goodbody clan with White Mischief and Ruth’s welcome return to inshore racing. The hotly tipped J/99 with Andrew Algeo at the helm joins the Sunfast 3600 Yoyo as new designs showing for the first time, while Stuart Cranston is set to bring his newly acquired Ker 32 down from Down. Stuart is part of a large contingent of Northern Irish entries that will be most welcome in Dublin.
"ICRA’s Under 25 initiative is bearing fruit with three waterfront Dun Laoghaire clubs fielding teams"
With the Half Tonners using the Nationals as the first event in something of a tour of the nation this year, it’s no surprise to see a seriously competitive line-up. Dave Cullen (current ICRA boat of the year holder) with Checkmate XV, Nigel Biggs with Checkmate XVIII, Johnny Swan’s Harmony, Michael Evans’ The Big Picture are joined by Darren and Michael Wright on their newly acquired Mata. If the Kelly/Boardman family bring King One there will be a serious showdown to see who takes bragging rights back to the Howth Yacht Club they all hail from.
ICRA’s Under 25 initiative is bearing fruit with 3 waterfront Dun Laoghaire clubs fielding teams. Wicklow Sailing Club is sending a Formula 28 and Foynes Under 25s have entered their J24. By the time the Royal Cork Academy and HYC U25 teams enter, it’s hoped to see a dozen under 25 teams competing.
If you have missed the early bird discount don’t despair. The Royal St George Yacht Club is working hard to ensure the championships represent exceptional value for money on the water and off. Enter now here
