Blessington Sailing Club's Stuart Nelson, a member of the Steering Committee of the International Mirror Class Association of Ireland, outlines the regrowth of the red-sailed dinghy class
Like many Irish sailors of a certain age, I learned to sail in a Mirror. It was the early '90s, I was 12, and the boats were already well-used and well-loved. We raced in summer and fixed them in winter—learning not just how to sail, but how to care for and understand a boat. Now, I find myself reliving that journey from a different angle—watching my own kids, aged 10, 12, and 13, gear up, rig their boats, and race with the same energy I once had. They're sailing Mirrors too. And loving it.
The Mirror Dinghy remains one of the most versatile, accessible and rewarding boats you can sail. It's small, simple when it needs to be, and yet capable of evolving into a high-performance racer with the right rig and skill. It's ideal for young sailors learning their trade—and just as perfect for a parent sharing the experience with their child. Two children / teens can team up, or a grown-up can crew for a younger helm. It's a boat that grows with you.
Mirror dinghy racing
One of the truly special things about the Mirror is its fleet diversity. At any given event, you'll see older wooden gaff-rigged boats racing side-by-side with modern Bermudian-rigged fibreglass builds. There are plenty of excellent wooden boats on the market for under €1,000, including some of the more recent high-performance Duffin builds. Older gaff rigs can be updated to Bermudian with fly-away poles, while those looking to compete at the highest level can go for a modern Trident or Winder boat. Whether you go for charm or cutting-edge, the Mirror gives you options—and they all race together.
Personally, I have a love-hate relationship with the wooden version. I hate that it has to be minded so well compared to some of the modern "bumper boats". But I love seeing my kids in their overalls, sanding, painting, repairing and tweaking. It's not just about the sailing—it's about the seamanship, the self-reliance, the pride of looking after something and making it work. That's something the Mirror teaches beautifully.
Boat preparation on Mirror dinghy
And the class community is just as rewarding. Since the 2023 World Championships in Sligo, the Irish Mirror Class has been buzzing. There's growing youth participation, returning adults, and a real effort to support new sailors—whether it's helping match people to boats, securing discounts from UK builders, or simply offering advice.
Triple Olympian Ger Owens coaching three Mirror crew
One event that really captures what the Mirror is all about is the upcoming O'Dowd Trophy Weekend, taking place June 21–22 at Malahide Yacht Club. Saturday is a training day open to all, featuring none other than triple Olympian Ger Owens, who'll be coaching on and off the water alongside a great team of local instructors. It's an amazing opportunity for youth sailors to develop their skills, ask questions, and get tailored tips from one of Ireland's most experienced dinghy racers.
Across the 2 days there will be a chance for parents and kids to connect, relax, and enjoy being part of the wider sailing community.
Then on Sunday, it's race time. Up to six short-format races will be run as part of the O'Dowd Trophy, giving newer sailors a chance to experience proper back-to-back competition in a fun, low-pressure setting. It's fast-paced, exciting, and a fantastic confidence builder—particularly for younger sailors looking to step up their racing.
If you grew up sailing Mirrors, now is a brilliant time to dust off that old boat in the garage. If you're new to the class, there's no better entry point for youth or family sailing in Ireland right now. It's a modern, accessible racing class with a proud heritage and a very bright future.
The red sails still fly on lakes and bays across the country. Whether you're restoring a classic or fine-tuning a Winder, there's room on the start line for you—and your crew.
The Mirror isn't just a boat. It's a tradition, a teacher, a racing platform, and a red-sailed time machine—with room for two.
Full Calendar here
O'Dowd Registration is open here
