Irish Schools Sailing has announced its inaugural Schools Team Racing Training Clinic. The event will be held at Lough Derg Yacht Club in County Tipperary on October 4th–5th.
This training clinic is designed for secondary school students nationwide. It combines competition with valuable learning experiences.
Participants will compete in teams of six, sailing dinghies provided by the Organising Authority. Each boat will hold two sailors. The event will adopt a round robin format, featuring experienced coaches and live umpiring.
To enter, sailors must meet minimum skill requirements: Basic Skills (Level 2) for crew and Improving Skills (Level 3) for helms. No previous team racing experience is necessary.
A study pack will be offered to help sailors understand the key concepts of team racing. The packed schedule includes a full day of racing on Saturday, tactical sessions, and a dinner at the club.
On Sunday, focus will shift to coaching and scenario-based racing, culminating in an afternoon prize-giving ceremony. All meals will be catered, with support from Bandon Grammar School's chef Shane Deane and Cully & Sully, who will provide soup for all attendees.
Camping options are available on-site for students, fostering camaraderie. Alternatively, a list of local accommodations is provided for those who prefer other arrangements.
Entry is open via the Lough Derg YC website, allowing complete teams or pairs to register. The deadline for entries is September 26th.
Lough Derg Yacht Club was selected for its excellent facilities and central location, enhancing accessibility for participating schools.
This event marks a promising start for Irish Schools Sailing, aiming to promote sailing opportunities for students across Ireland. The organisation welcomes support from schools and partners to expand future initiatives.
