Ewen Barry, Stan Browne, and Mark O'Donovan emerged as the victors of the Royal Cork Yacht Club's annual end-of-season River Race for National 18 dinghies held at Crosshaven on September 29th, Friday night.

A total of eight National 18s participated in the Cork Harbour race, which proved to be quite challenging as it took place in the light breeze that prevailed on the Owenabue River.

Light breeze prevailed on the Owenabue River for the National 18 River Race Photo: Bob Bateman

In addition, five mixed dinghies also started an evening race over the same course.

Vid below by Mary Malone

The Race Officer, Peter Crowley, took full advantage of the high tide to bring the boats into the bar on the second mark of the course.

National 18 Race Official team at Royal Cork Yacht Club (from left) - Andy Jenkins, Peter Crowley, Tom Dwyer, Joanne O'Brien and Richard Mc Glade Photo: Bob Bateman

The National 18 River Race drew some spectators to Royal Cork's marina, including the National 18's Hon Sec Adam McCarthy and class member Rory Fitzpatrick Photo: Bob Bateman

Ciana Barry (daughter of National 18 sailor Alex Barry) presents the Barry trophy for the 2023 River Race prize to Ewen Barry, Stan Browne and Mark O'Donovan 

The runners-up of the race were Harry Pritchard, Charles Dwyer, and Michael Crosbie. The Davy O'Connell crew were third.

Next up for the National 18s is the 2023 laying up supper at RCYC on November 11th. 

2023 National 18 River Race at Royal Cork Yacht Club Photo Gallert by Bob Bateman