Howth Junior Sailors on the Podium Again
The most recent stage of the Optimist provincial championships, the Leinster Championships, were held at Skerries Sailing Club on 12th & 13th June.
It was great to see Howth sailors turn out in large numbers. The regulars on the circuit were joined by more of their friends and club mates who took advantage of the short trip to get some big fleet experience. The shore crew in Skerries did a great job accommodating the 175 boats and the paraphernalia that goes with them while the local Garda cyclist was busy managing traffic on Harbour Road.
The Optimist fleet has been sailing in light airs since the spring, Saturday saw more of the same. Bright sunshine and little wind made it a better day for spectators than sailors who also had to deal with strong tides and heavy swells.
Racing began at lunchtime Saturday and two races were completed on the day. The scheduled third race was started but abandoned much to the disappointment of some of our sailors.
On Sunday we had wind, at last! Most of the main fleet enjoyed an exciting day on the water although the strong winds came as a surprise to some of the less experienced sailors. After three good races it was decided to head for the harbour before the torrential rains arrived. As the boats came ashore the heavens opened but it didn't spoil what had been a fun weekend for everyone.
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