New Cape 31s Impress On Their First Appearance at Howth

15th May 2022

WM Nixon

She may not have a lot of of accommodation, but she has all the sail area you could want - David Maguire's new Cape 31 Valkyrie in action off Howth this (Sunday) afternoon Credit: Judith Malcolm

The Mark Mills-designed Cape 31 is an uncompromising day-racing machine, but when two of them made their debut appearance off Howth this (Sunday) afternoon, their sheer style blew away any negative thoughts that if you're seeking any off-watch zizzes in a comfortable pilot berth down below, then this isn't the boat for you.

For if it's speed and action and skill and strength of nerve with grown-up sail areas that you seek, then sign on the dotted line. The two boats up and running are David Maguire's Valkyrie and Dan O'Grady's blue
boat, name to be revealed in due course, and at least one more of this breakthrough design will be joining them for the Howth Wave Regatta in three weeks' time.

Dan O'Grady's very blue boat was the first Cape 31 to be unwrapped in Ireland. Photo: Judith Malcolm

Published in Cape 31, Howth YC

Published in Cape 31

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Cape 31

About The Author

WM Nixon

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William M Nixon has been writing about sailing in Ireland for many years in print and online, and his work has appeared internationally in magazines and books. His own experience ranges from club sailing to international offshore events, and he has cruised extensively under sail, often in his own boats which have ranged in size from an 11ft dinghy to a 35ft cruiser-racer. He has also been involved in the administration of several sailing organisations.

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