Five young Irish Optimist sailors competed at the India International Regatta 2026 in Chennai. They raced over 10 days in a fleet of 50 boats from seven nations. The event forms part of the ASAF youth circuit and returned to Chennai after a long break. It was hosted by the Tamil Nadu Sailing Association with support from the Indian Sports Association and the Navy. The Optimist class was the largest entry. Other classes included ILCA4, 29er, 420 and IQ foils.
Irish participation in Chennai dates back to 2010. Early competitors included Conor O’Beirne and Sean Waddilove. In 2026, the Irish team comprised Philippa Arthurs, Jamie Blennerhassett, Lilly Sheridan, Lucia Rosenkowitz and Ben Chaix, coached by Thomas Chaix and supported by Ruth Spellman.
The Irish Optimist team ready to race at the India International Regatta 2026. Photo: Thomas Chaix
A sixth sailor, Sverre Bimberg from Sweden, joined the group for training and racing. After arrival on 2 January, the team had a short training session and two days of practice in the Bay of Bengal. Racing was held over four days. Boys and girls competed together, with separate scoring for girls.
Irish sailors struggled on the start line on day one. Philippa secured three early mid‑fleet finishes. Others were in the top half or learning fleet skills.
Day two saw improved starts. Philippa scored two top‑10 finishes. Lilly recorded three top‑10 results and moved into third among girls. Jamie climbed in the standings. Ben suffered a UFD and capsizes, while Lucia’s results improved.
Day three featured three races before a VIP break for the Minister for Shipping. Ben and Lucia met the Minister. In a special race by the naval pier, Philippa led from the start and finished first. Philippa continued to pressure at the top. Lilly held strong for bronze contention. Jamie progressed with better starts. Ben and Lucia showed flashes of speed.
Day four brought stronger winds and waves gusting to 25kts. All six sailors started well. Philippa finished second in the first race, enough to secure the title on countback. Lilly climbed to third for her best race. Jamie finished sixth in that race. In the next race, Sverre and Ben capsized and fell behind the fleet. Lucia’s boat filled with water, and she missed the finish window.
Optimist fleet battles it out in breezy conditions off Chennai coast. Photo: Thomas Chaix
Final placings saw Irish success. Girls secured gold and bronze. Jamie finished ninth overall, Ben 23rd and Lucia eighth among girls.
The closing ceremony featured speeches, a highlights film, podium medals and a social event.
The team took an extra day to visit the temples at Mahabalipuram near Chennai. They made international friends and are already talking about the 2027 regatta.
