The fourth Sunday of Howth Yacht Club's 50th Anniversary Frostbite Series delivered contrasting conditions across its two races, with a light and shifty southwesterly building to a gusty breeze in the teens that caught out several competitors.

Racing kicked off on time at 10:45 in under 10 knots, with the race team setting a windward-leeward course for the first race. The almost spring tides proved a significant tactical factor, particularly when judging weather mark Lay lines. For the second race, an Olympic course was set as the breeze built to 15-18 knots, with a 20-knot squall late in the race providing some unexpected swimming opportunities.

ILCA Fleet: O'Connell Takes Series Lead

In the ILCA 7 fleet, Dan O'Connell (RStGYC) has emerged as the new series leader on 9 points after discarding two races. Colm Cunningham (HYC) holds second with 13 points, while Skerries' Daragh Kelleher has moved into third overall on 15 points, with very consistent results in his counting races. Most notably, Kelleher secured a bullet in the final race of the day.

The ILCA 6 fleet has seen a change at the top, with Peter Hassett and Carla Fagan now tied on points after discards. While both sailors are showing impressive form, Hassett edges ahead on countback. Dylan Cassidy maintains his hold on third place overall with consistently solid performances.

Nicole Quinn continues to represent the ILCA 4 fleet with determination, completing both of the day's races in the challenging conditions.

PY Class: Sheridan's Dominance Continues

In the PY fleet, where the variety of boats adds an extra tactical dimension, Daragh Sheridan in his RS Aero 6 has built a commanding lead. His string of first place finishes, including both of today's races, demonstrates mastery of the varied conditions. The RS600 of Tristan Nelson holds second overall, while the IDRA 14 of Ryan Cairns rounds out the podium positions.

The Melges 15 fleet, scored both within PY and separately, now sees Karena Knaggs leading the standings. Charlie Robertson andCormac Farrelly hold second and third respectively, with only two points separating the top three boats, promising exciting racing as the series progresses.

Racing continues next Sunday with all eyes on the weather as we move deeper into winter.

Full results here.

Photo Credits: Harry Gallagher, Ronan MacDonell and Neil Murphy