The Rankin class returns to the spotlight this weekend when its annual 'World Championships' are staged in Cork Harbour. Hosted by the Royal Cork Yacht Club in Crosshaven, the two-day event will bring together one of Ireland's most distinctive traditional dinghy classes for five races across Saturday and Sunday.
The revival of the iconic Cobh-built clinker dinghies continues to gather momentum. The fleet now numbers 35 boats, with further restoration projects underway. The championships will provide both competitive racing and a celebration of local maritime heritage, with the classic boats gathered and on display throughout the weekend.
Fleet Gathering — Rankin dinghies spread across Cork Harbour during class racing. The annual 'World Championships' at Crosshaven celebrate both competition and the continuing revival of the historic Cobh-built boats. Photo: Mary Kidney
"The two-day, five-race sailing event provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate both competitive sailing and the rich local heritage of the Rankin boat," said Conor English and Maurice Kidney, who helped drive the class revival. "All Rankin owners are encouraged to make every effort to take part and help make this year's event a memorable occasion for the class. Excitement is building for another great gathering of the Rankin fleet."
The event highlights the remarkable resurgence of a class that once played a familiar role in Cork Harbour sailing. Strong support for the revival is reflected in the backing of eight sponsors for this year's championships. With a growing fleet, increasing restoration activity and strong local enthusiasm, the Rankin class continues to strengthen its place in Cork Harbour's sailing heritage.
