This Sunday, 5th September sees the return of the Kona Windsurfing class to contest their national championships on the Malahide estuary in County Dublin.
The class has over 20 members in Ireland and is unique in that sailors of all ages and weights compete on the same course. Each weight category has a different sized sail to compensate for weight so that all competitors have equal speed. Unlike with Olympic classes, the Kona doesn't allow pumping which means racing is more about strategy and skill, and less about strength. This event is in its ninth year with racing normally held on a classic windward-leeward course.
Current national champion, Robbie Walker of RSGYC is expected to face stiff competition from Joe Galeckas of MYC who won the championships in 2019. Also vying for podium finishes this year will be Cormac O'Brien and Andrew Christofides, both of Malahide Yacht club who both previously held the title. Another favourite for this year's title is Des Gibney, of RSGYC who has narrowly missed out in previous years but has recently shown strong performance on his home waters of Dun Laoghaire.
Charter equipment is still available, and entries don't close until midnight on Wednesday 1st September. Further information on the event and entries can be found on the MYC website.
