Fireball sailors are passionate about their boats to the point of not being able to "let go" when due to work, family or life distractions they park their dinghy boots. This passion is both a blessing and a curse for the class, resulting in a slew of competitive boats parked in garages, sheds and gardens around the country. The underlying reason for holding onto Fireballs is that the sailor believes in their heart of hearts that they will someday return to the fray.

Meanwhile, the boats sitting in the garages and gardens of Ireland depreciate in value while remaining unavailable to young sailors looking for good affordable competitive boats to join in the fun.

"Boats sitting in the garages and gardens of Ireland depreciate in value while remaining unavailable to young sailors"

The forthcoming #Howth2020 World Championships next August provides the perfect opportunity to free the "captive" boats into the hands of the next generation of sailors. For those holding dormant boats it is the watershed moment to examine their ability to return to competitive racing. It is time also to be realistic about the value of their boat, perhaps sitting idle for a number of years. While the hull, spars and sails are likely to be in perfect condition a refresh of cordage, control lines and possibly some blocks and cleats may be in order. It's a perfect time to sell or charter with local and international demand for boats for the #Howth2020 Worlds next August.

For those planning to travel from Australia, South Africa, Canada, USA and further afield it will be more cost-effective to charter a boat than to transport it by container to Ireland. By releasing dormant boats now owners will be doing themselves and the class a favour.

For information on how to sell or charter out your Fireball contact the class hon sec at [email protected]