At a time when the world of offshore racing is embroiled in a debate over the future format of major events, details of a race that has been growing a loyal following over its five editions will be announced at the National Yacht Club this afternoon.
The Dun Laoghaire to Dingle Race, sponsored by Pierse, has tapped into a vein of support for a middle distance course. It starts on the evening of July 2nd next.
The race provides a neat feed into the cruising grounds of the south-west coast and WIORA (West of Ireland Offshore Racing Association) Week taking place at Fenit.
Hal Sisk's newly-restored 1964 Sparkman and Stephens design Cotton Blossom has given rise to including a special classic division.
The appeal of the course has also spread further afield with the entry of a Mustang 30-footer from North Yorkshire.
The organisers state emphatically that this is a strictly Corinthian competition - no professionals or sponsored boats. The 280-mile course should take about two to three days and is a perfect introduction for the boats' regular crews, many of whom are family-based.
Scheduled for the off-year to the biennial Round Ireland Race, the fact that this shorter event pulls into Dingle serves to highlight the attractions of the Kerry port as a place of refuge before the rigours of the sea off the west coast for dozens of yachts in the past.
At almost half the distance of the Wicklow race, the Dun Laoghaire to Dingle is undoubtedly more manageable for many crews who might otherwise have shied away from competing.
Handicapping for the race will be simple - IRC only. Ironically, the first three boats from the 1999 event were all former IOR racers with proven offshore crews.
Donal Morrissey's Joggernaut from Galway Bay SC took the overall prize with Michael Horgan's Emircedes of the National YC second and Jim Donegan's White Rooster of the Royal Cork YC third.
Whether or not the proximity of the start to Kinsale's Sovereign's Cup Regatta at the end of June deters potential south-coast entries remains to be seen. However, as that event has already reached its limit of 100 boats, the Dun Laoghaire to Dingle could offer a ready alternative for boats on the waiting list.
Meanwhile, the hunt for a high-performance development officer at the Irish Sailing Association has started. A proven sailor with a background in coaching is being sought for the full-time position based in Dun Laoghaire.
Special emphasis will be placed on youth training and the plan envisages establishing a dedicated academy. The ISA is offering a package of £25,000 per annum plus benefits. Suitable candidates should contact the association's offices on 01 280 0239 or by email: paddy@sailing.ie.
