It has been a long time coming. Royal Ulster's Opening Day will be on Saturday 1st May. Although this is an annual event, it will have its own particular difficulties this year due to the Covid restrictions.
Opening Day is traditionally not an event that requires formal entry and is open to nearby Ballyholme YC members and it is difficult to predict the turnout.
The club will be managing the event within the latest RYANI guidance for starting racing and have protocols in place at both Clubs to ensure numbers are contained within the recommended limit of 100 attendees.
That process will be made considerably easier given that neither the Waverleys nor the Sigmas have yet launched.
It is anticipated there will be four classes: IRC unrestricted, Whitesail, Lasers and Dinghy Handicap. The Notice of Race and Sailing Instructions will be on the website
Given the current weather forecast for generally light conditions, it is anticipated racing will be around the buoys, and the start will be around 13.00