Ghost Raider, skippered by Lynn Reilly, claimed overall victory in the inaugural Pursuit Yacht Race at Howth Yacht Club. The new-format race formed part of the Howth Maritime and Seafood Festival and delivered close tactical racing in front of large crowds along the East Pier.
Sailed under blue skies and a steady breeze, the event featured staggered starts based on each yacht’s handicap rating. Slower boats started first while faster crews attempted to chase them down around a coastal course off Howth.
The fleet raced from the East Pier towards Balscadden before rounding the Garbh, Island and Stack marks. Boats then returned for a dramatic downwind finish close to the harbour crowds.
Island Run: A competing yacht passes Ireland’s Eye during the inaugural Howth Pursuit Yacht Race. Photo: Karolina Kernan
Reilly guided Ghost Raider through shifting breeze, tidal currents and busy fleet traffic to secure the inaugural title. Second place went to Splashdance, sailed by John Beckett and Andy George, while Eamonn Burke’s Leeuwin completed the podium in third.
Spectators followed the racing throughout the afternoon with live commentary, adding to the festival atmosphere ashore.
Organisers Dec MacManus and Ryan O’Leary said the event had achieved its aim of combining competitive sailing with public engagement. “We wanted to create something different that combined competitive racing with a real festival atmosphere,” they said. “The feedback from sailors and spectators has been hugely positive, and we’re already looking forward to building on it next year.”
The event was supported by Fingal County Council, Explore Howth and The King Sitric. The successful debut adds another fixture to Howth Yacht Club’s busy racing programme and organisers expect the pursuit race to return next season.
