Strangford Lough was at its best for the Squibs hosted by Killyleagh Yacht Club on the western shore for the strong fleet of 30 at the Northern Championship last weekend. Bright sunshine and friendly winds persisted over the two days.
Overall winners were the far-travelled Ian Travers and Keith O’Riordan from Kinsale, with Aiden O’Connell and Lauren Donaghy of Royal Irish runners-up and Vincent Delany and Joe O'Byrne (Lough Derg and Royal St George in third).
The first two races had a very light northeasterly. Race Officer Scott Rodgers managed to get in the two races despite the very light winds. Races 3 and 4 enjoyed a much more solid wind of six knots and had a slight course alteration. On Sunday, the fleet had perfect racing in eight knots.
Squib fleet racing at Killyleagh Yacht Club on Stranford Lough in the Northern Championships Photo: Tommy Brown
Sunday morning saw the fleet head out for the one race showdown. The overzealous fleet suffered a couple of general recalls after which they behaved with the black flag forcing some to head home. The deciding race continued.
Ian Travers and Keith O'Riordan of Kinsale with their hands on the Squib Northern Trophy
Things were very close, but ultimately the slippery Ian Travers and Keith O Riordan overtook and by the third run, Atomic had pulled away to seal the Championship. Aiden and Lauren improved over the weekend and finished second overall with Vincent Delaney and Joe O'Bryne in bronze place.
On a new trophy for the Silver Fleet, the first names on the prize were Jonny Miller and Sally Watson of Royall North.
Silver fleet Squib Northern Championship winners – Jonny Miller and Sally Watson of Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club
The Squibs dispersed all over Ireland but will gather at Lough Derg for the much-anticipated National Championships on June 6th, 7th and 8th. There, the Irish fleet will be joined by British visitors, which may bring the numbers up to about 50.
