Paul O'Higgins' early-season performance in his JPK 10.80 Rockabill VI means the Royal Irish skipper will be the winner of the 2025 Viking Marine ISORA Coastal Series regardless of the outcome of Friday's final race.
The four-hour night race starts at 7 pm from Dun Laoghaire, and up to ten boats are expected to compete for the minor overall places in the four-race series that began in early April.
As regular Afloat readers know, the distinctive and well-tuned Rockabill VI was on top form to win all three coastal races in April.
An eve of night race points analysis by organisers shows Rockabill VI currently has 205 points, while Tom Shanahan's Ruth stands at 174. If Ruth, the reigning ISORA champion, wins on Friday night, they will earn approximately 68 points. They will then discard a 56-point score, which only brings them to 186. This means Rockabill VI (still based in West Cork after a Calves Week win on ORC) will win without needing to race.
Tonight's ISORA Night Race course selection is challenging due to weather conditions. The forecast predicts easterly winds at 5-6 knots. The current proposed course targets the ISORA Virtual mark. An alternative route considers heading to North Kish and returning, with adjustments to the side of the Virtual mark. Skippers participating in the race were encouraged to provide midweek feedback and suggestions before Friday's course announcement.
ISORA Night Race proposed course for Friday, August 15th
