The growth of interest in dinghy sailing through the development of a Mixed Dinghy fleet, part of the club’s programme to encourage more people into sailing, is noted as particularly successful in the annual report of the Royal Cork Yacht Club.
Youth sailing has been given particular attention, and the club now has two 1720s and a J24 available for the development of Under-25 racing.
“The club got three RS Feva club boats. The RS Feva has established itself as the main dinghy in the fleet. The new 420 fleet has gathered significant momentum since it was established,” the report says.
Incoming Royal Cork Yacht Club Admiral Annamarie Fegan (left) with one of the club's top youth sailors Jonathan O'Shaughnessy, and outgoing Royal Cork Yacht Club, Admiral Kieran O’Connell Photo: Bob Bateman
While bad weather affected club racing, there was still a successful season of sailing, and it was “an excellent year for the RCYC on the international stage,” says Admiral Kieran O’Connell, noting the success of members at overseas events, maintaining the international reputation of the club and its competitive sailing standards. “A big well done to all members who competed in the many events across the year across the globe.”
“Inclement weather was a problem. A number of races had to be cancelled due to bad weather, but there was still a very active and successful year of sailing. The club ran 46 races throughout the Summer, Autumn and Winter leagues,” says the Admiral’s report.
Members will gather for the 303rd annual general meeting in the Crosshaven clubhouse on Monday night, January 22, for what will be a historic occasion.
The oldest yacht club in the world is set to elect current Vice Admiral, Annamarie Fegan, as the first woman to be its Admiral. When current Admiral Kieran O’Connell took office in 2022, he nominated her for that post. She was elected by
the members and is expected, in what has been the pattern at the club, to become Admiral as he completes his two-year term in office.
The 2024 1720 European Championships will be staged as part of Volvo Cork Week this July Photo: Rick Tomlinson
“This year is a Cork Week year and entries are already flowing in for the next edition of Volvo Cork Week since the formal launch of the event in October,” the Admiral says. “This legendary event has always attracted a large number of national and international entries since its inception. The exciting RS21 One Design Class will be a part of the 2024 event and the 1720 Europeans and discussions are on-going with several other fleets and classes. We have interest from the US and the UK for the Beaufort Cup – (the inter-Services competition).”
The annual report notes a slight drop in membership. “The club’s membership took a slight dip,” according to Kieran O’Connell, “but is still tracking well over the last few years, and the club’s finances are in a very healthy place after considerable capital projects that have enhanced the club and facilities for members. This year has been excellent, and we will, as always, endeavour to continue this trend for many years.”
