WIORA Offshore Series Returns with Foynes to Fenit Race

16th August 2025

Afloat.ie Team

Derek Dillon will defend his title aboard the B&C Grand Soleil 37, "Big Deal". Credit: Afloat

The West of Ireland Offshore Racing Association (WIORA) Offshore Series is set to return this year with three thrilling races. The first race from Foynes to Fenit will kick off on August 23rd at 10:00 AM.

Derek Dillon is back to defend his title aboard the B&C Grand Soleil 37, "Big Deal." WIORA Commodore Ray McGibney will participate with his Sigma 38, "Tommiray."

Jackie Cronin joins the lineup from the Royal Western Yacht Club, sailing "Jimmy Bum," while Joe Kiernan will compete in the Beneteau First 44.7, "Out of Office."

In a first for the west coast, Joost Van der Val will race the J145 "Jaelli," which he sailed from Bermuda. Van der Val is an experienced sailor, having previously raced in the North Sea and English Channel, according to WIORA sources.

The first race for August 23 anticipates light easterly winds, promising soem downwind sailing in the Shannon estuary and around Kerry Head.

Published in WIORA, Shannon Estuary

Published in WIORA

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