Keelboat racing continues into the winter at Howth Yacht Club with the Brass Monkey Series, sponsored by Brass Monkey Restaurant and Tadg Riordan Motors, running from 8th November to 12th December. The series welcomes everyone from novice crews looking to build their confidence and develop new skills to experienced racing teams keen to stay sharp during the off-season. All are drawn by the promise of competitive racing, crisp winter sailing days, and the infamous camaraderie and craic synonymous with the series.
Now entering its 39th official year, the series is steeped in tradition, having been inducted as an official HYC event in 1987. It remains a much-loved fixture of the HYC open events calendar, bringing together cruiser-racer crews for another season of competitive winter sailing. The prizegiving bacon-and-cabbage dinner remains a firm favourite, and the spirit of the series- friendly competition, good company, and an appreciation for fresh winter spray- is just as much a part of the event as the racing itself.
Winter Warriors – Crews make the most of the Brass Monkey Series at Howth Yacht Club, where sailors of all experience levels can develop their skills and enjoy competitive winter racing. Photo: Karolina Kernan
As ever, Pat Connolly has organised the series, and his long-standing involvement has taken him from competing in the early years to becoming the Keeper of the Flame for the Brass Monkeys tradition. His keen eye for results and talent for numbers help keep the handicapping competitive and fair, keeping crews on their toes throughout the series.
Monkey Weather – Cruiser-racers compete under wintry skies off Howth, with the Brass Monkey Series returning on 8 November for its 39th year of friendly competition and winter sailing. Photo: Karolina Kernan
While the racing may look relaxed at first glance, a cherished ethos underpins it, with a healthy dose of competition alongside the friendship that has kept sailors coming back year after year.
Over the years, many competitors have developed traditions of their own, whether that's sharing a glass of wine aboard after racing, swapping stories from the day's sailing, or heading for the warmth of the Clubhouse fire. These familiar rituals are part of what makes Brass Monkeys special, offering a chance to enjoy the company of fellow sailors long after the boats have come ashore. With the support of Brass Monkey Restaurant and Tadg Riordan Motors, the series continues a long-standing tradition of winter racing in Howth.
Keeping the Flame – Peter McCabe's Arcturus joins Flexit and other cruiser-racers in the Howth Brass Monkey fleet, where competitive sailing and longstanding friendships remain central to the winter series. Photo: Karolina Kernan
As longtime competitor Peter McCabe of Arcturus put it, “This series is perfect for summer racers who want to enjoy a more relaxed level of racing, give crew a chance to try out different jobs, and maybe choose the Arcturus style and socialise on board. It is also good for cruising sailors who would like to extend their season."
If you're looking to keep sailing through the winter months, there's still plenty to look forward to on the water. Whether you're a regular competitor or considering joining the fleet for the first time, secure your place in this year's series.
