Sailed over four days, the Irish Optimist Nationals 2021 for youth sailors had a fleet of 133 boats representing over 13 different clubs, competing across the Regatta Fleet and Main, Senior and Junior fleets on Lough Derg Yacht Club.
The host club provided an outdoor venue for the travelling families with many having more than one sailor in the various fleets.
PRO John Leech delivered 11 races, south of the Corrakeens Islands throughout the championships in typically shifting winds.
With the Regatta fleet sailing close to shore in Dromineer Bay, with Liam Maloney as Race Officer, which for many was their first regatta experience.
The organisers introduced a new format to the regatta fleet with 50% of their time provided as coaching, fun and games.
Prize giving led by Joe Gilmartin, LDYC Commodore, outside in beautiful sunshine, crowned a new national champion in each fleet,
Caoilinn Geraghty McDonnell of RStGYC first in the Senior Fleet, Andrew O’Neill of RCYC first in the Junior Fleet and Patrick Fegan of MYC first Regatta.
Optimists go afloat at Lough Derg for the 2021 National Championships
Racing was very tight over the 4 days with the leading changing each day. Two points separated first from second-placed Des Turvey, HYC in the Senior fleet, and Two points in the Junior fleet from Conor Cronin of MYC.
Royal Cork YC were the team prize winners in both Senior and Junior fleets.
Full results can be found here
IODAI President Alexander Walsh said, "feedback from both competitors and parents was very positive and look forward to returning to Lough Derg Yacht Club for great racing afloat, great hospitality ashore and lots of activities for the children to enjoy ashore".
