The Rankin ‘Worlds’ Championships were called off for the second time at the weekend as strong winds again prevented the Cork Harbour fleet from racing.
The Cobh-built dinghies had been due to race on Saturday and Sunday from the Royal Cork Yacht Club at Crosshaven.
“The boats were ready, crews were ready and the atmosphere was fantastic, but once again, the weather had other ideas,” said Conor English and Maurice Kidney, the two men who have led the huge revival of interest in the Rankin fleet.
“With strong winds forecast and conditions proving unsuitable for racing, the decision was made to call off the Worlds for a second time.
“A frustrating decision for everyone involved, particularly those who had travelled a long way to be there, but ultimately the right one. We may not have got to race, but we’ll live to sail another day.”
There was no shortage of anticipation at the RCYC, where the Rankin fleet had gathered for what everyone hoped would be the long-awaited return to racing at the ‘Worlds’.
“The class is only as good as the community that makes it and we’re incredibly lucky to have such a brilliant bunch of sailors, owners, families, volunteers and supporters behind it,” said English and Kidney.
“It really is a team effort and, of course, none of it would be possible without the boats and the people who keep turning up year after year.
Worlds Apart – The Rankin fleet gathers at Crosshaven for a championship weekend that never got afloat, with unsuitable conditions forcing the ‘Worlds’ to be called off for the second time
“There’s something particularly special about seeing a fleet gathered together, even when the sails remain firmly in their bags — the people and, of course, the beauty of the boats themselves.
“To mark the event and gathering, we had a small prizegiving to recognise the efforts of the class.”
The organisers also thanked their sponsors, race officers and the RCYC for the work involved in preparing for the championships.
“There was an enormous amount of work behind the scenes and their commitment is hugely appreciated.
“So, for now, the Rankins remain all dressed up with nowhere to go. But the appetite to get racing is stronger than ever and when the wind finally plays ball, we’ll be ready.”
