Three Chevrons hold a slender lead heading into the final day of the 2026 Mermaid National Championship after another day of close racing in fresh and shifty conditions at Rush Sailing Club.
A 15 to 20-knot breeze tested crews and race officials alike on the second day of the championship, with frequent wind shifts producing dramatic position changes throughout both races.
The Race Officer signalled the intent for disciplined starts by flying the U Flag from the outset. The opening attempt at Race 3 ended in a general recall before the fleet got away cleanly at the second attempt.
Race 3 delivered some of the closest racing of the regatta. Three Chevrons (119) built on the momentum from Friday's victory but faced sustained pressure throughout the race.
Innocence (188), Wild Wind (131) and Jill (134) all took turns at the front as the lead changed repeatedly around the course. Three Chevrons eventually held on to secure a second successive race win.
Race 4 proved equally demanding.
Three boats were disqualified for being over the line at the start, reducing the fleet before racing had properly settled. The fresh, oscillating breeze continued to reward accurate tactics and quick decision-making.
The decisive move came on the final reach when Jill (134) found extra pace. Paul Smith and crew surged through the leading group to take the race win ahead of The Message (185), with Three Chevrons (119) finishing third.
After four races, the championship remains finely poised.
With one discard now in effect, Three Chevrons lead on five net points, level with Innocence (188) but ahead on countback after recording two race victories.
Jill (134) moves into third overall on 11 points, tied with The Message (185) and Wild Wind (131), leaving several crews firmly in contention.
With two days of racing still to come and four races scheduled, the 2026 Irish Mermaid National Championship remains wide open. Fresh conditions are expected to continue, leaving plenty of opportunities for the leaderboard to change before the title is decided.
