The 2021 Kona windsurfing national championships were hosted by Malahide Yacht Club on Sunday, 5th September. Under the direction of race officer Niall Gallagher of MYC, the sailors enjoyed a windward-leeward course in a 10 to 15 knot south easterly on Malahide estuary.
In the final race, Joe Galeckas of MYC dominated to gain victory over RStGYC sailor and 2020 titleholder Robbie Walker.
Fellow RStGYC sailor, Des Gibney, earned a well-deserved 3rd place whilst Damien Dion of NYC placed 4th overall and Miha Rothl came in 5th. The youth category was won by Mika Sacolax, who placed 11th overall.
After 4 races and going into the final race of the day, Walker and Galeckas were on equal points, and the title was up for grabs. A good start and excellent windward beat put Galeckas in a commanding position, and he was able to hold his lead and claim victory.
This is the 9th Year that the National Kona Windsurfing championships have been staged, with the winners receiving the Alan Harris memorial trophy. MYC sailors have dominated the event with 6 winners in the last 9 years. More recently, RSGYC sailors have challenged the MYC stronghold, winning the trophy on 3 occasions.
The sailors extend their thanks and congratulations to MYC for hosting an excellent event and to Surfdock for their generous sponsorship.
A group of the Kona windsurfers on a windward leg in 15 to 20-knot south-easterly breeze on Malahide Estuary
Roy Guinan is in the foreground. The Kona Fleet on a leeward leg of the national championships hosted by MYC.
Des Gibney of the RSGYC, with sail number 2677, finished 3rd overall in the Kona National Championships.
The fleet was challenged with shifty wind conditions at the top mark, close to Malahide village.
David Jullo of the NYC placed 8th overall, participating in the event for the second time.
Winner Joe Galeckas of the MYC, cruising to victory in the 5th race of the day
