Quinn Sails Away With Regatta Victory… Just!

Last weekend was CLYC's annual Dinghy Regatta, also incorporating the Irish Laser 2000 Irish Championships. Ian Roche and Michael O'Farrell were in charge of racing and on day one they really had their work cut out for them with wind shifting regularly and gusting violently.

The B Fleet was dominated by Conor O'Farrell on day one with 3 bullets, Anna McNulty was close behind with two seconds and a fourth and Conor Quinn was chasing with three thirds.

The A Fleet was ruled by Rooney and McDonagh who took two bullets but only after cruel shifts robbed the McLaughlins leaving them with a 2,3,4 for their day's work. Richard Cranley, the Bradley Boys and Dara O'Connor were all well within striking distance at the end of day one.

Day two and lighter winds saw role reversal in both fleets with Conor Quinn taking three bullets and Anna McNulty super consistent taking three seconds. This unfortunately left Conor O'Farrell with three thirds and although he had equal points to Quinn he took second place on countback.

The A Fleet meanwhile was robbed of it's star performers thanks to harvest duties for Rooney. The McLaughlins were quick to take advantage and posted three bullets to take both the regatta victory and the Irish Laser 2000 title. A somewhat hollow victory with Rooney away but still, there's always next year for revenge! Richard Cranley took second place and the Bradleys third. Dara O'Connor was first Lady and the Cranley boys first Veterans.

Good news for Conor O'Farrell and Henry Junior McLaughlin who have both been invited to sail at the prestigious Helmsman's Championships in Schull later this month. The top sailors from all the different fleets in Ireland are invited to compete against each other in similar boats. It is perhaps the first time that the club has been represented at this event.

Club Juniors were also competing at the Topper match racing championships in Strangford last weekend and came away with second prize. The Topper Traveller also produced good results with Conor O'Farrell 3rd, Conor Quinn 11th, Anna McNulty 14th, Stephen Finnegan 16th and Tom O'Hare 29th.

Sailing continues every Sunday at the Club right up to Christmas, and new members are always welcome.

Conor Quinn receives his trophy for first place in the B Fleet Regatta

Dara O'Connor receives her trophy for First Lady in the CLYC Regatta

Henry and Liz McLaughlin receive the Irish Laser 2000 Trophy from Philip O'Connor (centre)

Kieran and Brian Cranley with the Veterans' Trophy. Philip O'Connor is on the left.