Think of Carlingford Lough, and most people think of the bustling miniature mediaeval township on the Louth shore. But across on the County Down shore, the little beachside village of Killowen offers a different world where the welcoming Carlingford Lough Yacht Club hosted 19 boats of the historic IDRA 14 Class for their annual Nationals.
Day 1 opened in light airs, and HYC quickly made their mark. Alan Carr and Orlaith Connolly in 14/38 "Starfish" took a commanding win in Race 1, while Ryan Cairns and Ciarán Durnford in 14/128 "Dr JP Frog" bounced back from an OCS to storm through the fleet for 6th. Race 2 saw 128 strike back with a bullet, chased closely by Simon Revill and guest crew David Tillotson in 14/134 "Dubious" who finished 3rd, with 38 in 4th.
Carlingford Lough YC's boat-park at KIllowen is south-facing
Day 2 brought glassy conditions and a long postponement ashore before racing in shifty, tide-driven breezes. HYC crews rose to the challenge where 134 claimed a win, 38 a 2nd, and 128 posted two strong podium finishes. Jim Lambkin, usually found on our committee boat, had a standout day with Wendy Rudd in 14/1 "Error", securing 4th and 6th, while Orla Doogue led much of Race 4 crewing in 14/122 "Diane" (DMYC) before finishing 5th. By the end of the day, just one point separated the top four overall with 128 and 134 tied for first, and 38 tied for third. Four different race winners for the first four races leaving it all to play for and very exciting going into the final day.
Three-sail reach, every square inch of cloth working well
Day 3 delivered more breeze and even tighter battles. 134 notched another race win in race 5, setting up a dramatic showdown in the final race. With everything still to play for, Ryan and Ciarán in 128 delivered under pressure, grabbing the win they needed as 134 and 38 fought hard behind, tying on equal points.
The IDRA 14 Class would very much like to thank Commodore Catherine McDonagh, and all at Carlingford Lough Yacht Club, for their hospitality during the event.
After six intense races, HYC sailors swept the podium in style:
1st – 14/128 Dr JP Frog, Ryan Cairns & Ciarán Durnford
2nd – 14/134 Dubious, Simon Revill & David Tillotson
3rd – 14/38 Starfish, Alan Carr & Orlaith Connolly
6th – 14/1 Error, Jim Lambkin & Wendy Rudd
8th – 14/122 Diane, Catherine Martin (DMYC) & Orla Doogue (HYC)
Following the completion of the six race championship, a crew's race was held where the owners gave control of the helm over to their crew. The white sail only race was won by Orlaith Connolly in 14/38.
