Race Reports - Irish National Championships 2009

UK Spitfire wins IMA Irish Nationals

The weekend of 5-6 September saw the University of Limerick Activity Centre on Lough Derg host the Irish Nationals 2009. 31 catamarans attended from over 7 different classes for the single start, handicap event. 3 boats travelled from the UK.

Heavy weather was forecast and delivered tricky conditions on the Loug, which was surrounded by hills creating confused winds with heavy gusts. Saturday turned out to be lighter of the days, there were still many capsizes and damage for a few of the boats from the crowded start line and steel committee boat.

On Sunday racing was stopped after 1 lap of the first race due to 36 knot gusts, and half the fleet were not able to compete. In total 4 races counted, with one discard. After a very windy two days, with some close racing the winners were decided on count back.

Overall Results:

There were also fleet prizes for the Spitfires, Hurricanes, youths and F18s.

The Irish were very hospitable hosts as ever and the weather provided a challenging event, the Spitfire fleet looks forward to joining the event again next year.

Next events:

For the Spitfires – UK Nationals at Minnis Bay SC 9-11th October combined with the Shadows, we hope to see of the Irish fleet there.

F18s – Stone Sailing Club TT, 3-4th October