Irish sailor Charles Cullen climbed into fifth overall as the 2026 International Moth European Championship found its rhythm in L’Escala, Spain. Four races were completed on Wednesday after the weather improved on the Costa Brava. Representing the Royal St George Yacht Club and National Yacht Club, Cullen posted a consistent scoreline of 5, 6, 6 and 7 to sit fifth in the 37-boat fleet on 17 net points after the opening four races.
Fellow Irish competitor Ronan Wallace of Wexford Harbour Boat and Tennis Club is placed 26th overall after four races.
The championship's third day marked a welcome return to full racing after two days of unsettled conditions. Stable winds across the Mar d’Empúries allowed race officials to complete four races, including an additional contest to make up for part of the schedule.
Foiling Fleet — Argentina's Mario Segers (ARG 5022) leads a group of International Moths racing off L’Escala during the European Championship on Spain's Costa Brava. Photo: CN L'Escala/Laura Carrau
The conditions proved ideal for foiling, with the Moth fleet delivering high-speed racing in relatively manageable seas.
France's Enzo Balanger leads the championship after a dominant opening series. The Marseille sailor has a three-point net score after discarding his opening-race result.
Australia's Ryan Littlechild sits second overall on six points, while American sailor Brad Funk occupies third place on nine points. Australia's John Harris is fourth, just ahead of Cullen, as the fleet heads into the decisive second half of the championship.
The International Moth European Championship runs until 13 June at Club Nàutic l’Escala and has attracted many of the world's leading foiling sailors. With a stronger breeze now established on the Costa Brava, the battle for the European title is entering a crucial phase.
