Irish sailors are competing this week at the Portugal Grand Prix in Vilamoura, where a record 416 athletes have gathered. The Irish sailors are part of a 44-nation fleet racing across five Olympic classes — 49er, 49erFX, 470, ILCA 6 and ILCA 7.
A total of 316 boats and 108 coaches are entered. It marks the largest turnout in the regatta’s history.
After three races sailed, Howth girls Eve McMahon and Sienna Wright are seventh and 13th, respectively.
In the men's ILCA 7, Royal Irish's Fiachra McDonnell and Ballyholme's Bobby Driscoll are 26th and 86th.
Racing on Wednesday was delayed by light and unstable winds. A steady southerly breeze of around 7 knots, shifting between 160 and 170 degrees, settled during the afternoon. The race committee then completed the opening schedule.
Two races were sailed in the 49er fleet. All other classes — 49erFX, 470, ILCA 6 Women, ILCA 6 Men and ILCA 7 — completed one race.
ILCA sailors battle for position in flat-water conditions off the Algarve coast. Photo: Vilamoura Sailing/ Prow Group
Olympic Medallists Competing
The fleet includes several Olympic medallists. Odile van Aanholt of the Netherlands, 49erFX gold medallist at Paris 2024, is racing in Vilamoura.
Sweden’s Vilma Bobeck, silver medallist in the same class at Paris 2024, is competing with a new crew. Her former teammate, Rebecca Netzler, is present as a coach.
Spain’s Jordi Xammar, bronze medallist in the 470 at Tokyo 2020, is also on the start line.
Early Olympic Marker
The Portugal Grand Prix is seen as an early benchmark in the new Olympic cycle. Established medallists and emerging teams are using the event to assess form ahead of future championships.
Racing continues throughout the week, subject to weather conditions. Vilamoura Sailing describes the Algarve venue as the world’s largest dinghy sailing centre, regularly hosting Olympic-class competition.
For a full list of results, click here.
