The Northern Ireland RS racing season commenced on Sunday, 27th April, with the Spring Shakedown at Carrickfergus Sailing Club. Organised by Paul Robinson and his team, the event featured multiple races before the club's traditional opening-day BBQ and social gathering.
Thirteen RS400 teams and two RS200 teams participated in overcast conditions, with a strong breeze from Belfast providing challenging racing. The day began with a tricky manoeuvre through a narrow tide channel off the slipway.
Ross Kearney and Andrew Vaugan squeezing Stephen McLernon and Edwina Temon at the RS Spring Shakedown at Carrickfergus Sailing Club
In the first race, Ross Kearney and Andrew Vaughan secured victory in their new white boat. They aim to compete for the UK and Irish RS400 National titles later this summer. Paul and Adam Robinson achieved second place.
Paul and Adam Robinson powering through the Belfast Lough chop at the at the RS Spring Shakedown at Carrickfergus Sailing Club
The second race saw Jocelyn Hill and Rowan Berry take the lead after starting strong at the pin end. They maintained their position to win.
Jocelyn Hill (left) covering Ross Kearney
By the third and fourth races, the ebbing tide made navigation difficult for many boats. Stephen McLernon and Edwina Ternon won the third race, with Ross and Andrew finishing in second again. The final race saw Ross and Andrew claim victory, with Daniel Nelson and his partner coming in second.
Plans are in place for a similar event to take place next year. The next race is the RS Northern Championships at Strangford Lough YC on 17th and 18th May.
Results are downloadable below
