Despite the initial setback of losing the first two Sunday races to inclement weather, the series rebounded with back-to-back races over the following two Sundays. The remainder of the series enjoyed excellent racing conditions, with wind speeds predominantly in the upper teens.

There were some impressive performances, notably from "Out & About", skippered by Terry McCoy and his experienced crew and, as the largest boat in the fleet, they secured four bullets.

The two Malahide boats “Billy Whizz” and “Shenanigans” were very competitive and competition was particularly intense amongst "Billy Whizz", "Mistoffelles", and "Mary Ellen". The final race was crucial in determining the overall result, especially with one not participating in the final race, leaving the field open. "Mary Ellen" clinched victory in a nail-biting finish, winning by less than a second on corrected time.

Post-race celebrations included a prize-giving lunch, featuring the traditional Brass Monkeys cuisine, which celebrity chef Terry McCoy acclaimed as the best in his twelve years attending!

Commodore Neil Murphy highlighted the seamless transition from the Brass Monkeys series to the Summer racing season, emphasising the year-round nature of sailing.

He then presented the overall awards:

1st - "Mary Ellen" (HYC)

2nd - "Billy Whizz" (Malahide Yacht Club)

3rd - "Mistoffelles" (HYC)

Followed by Brass Monkey Prizes:

1st - "Shenanigans" (Malahide Yacht Club)

2nd - "Timballoo" (HYC)

3rd - "Out & About" (HYC)

The organising committee would like to offer special thanks to the series sponsor, Matt Smith of the Bright Motor Group, who is retiring this year and we wish himself and Joan many happy years in retirement. We would also like to thank John Aungier of the Brass Monkey restaurant for providing his ever popular prizes.

The event would not be successful without the dedication of the Howth Yacht Club race management team, and we would like to extend our thanks to Mike Head, Scorie Walls, Derek Bothwell, Paddy Judge, Rupert Jeffares, Gordon Knaggs, along with newcomers Orla and the seasoned Roy!

Finally, a shout out to Frank and the team in the bar and of course Marius and Marcel in the restaurant.

The final word of thanks is to all the amazing skippers and crew who braved the chilly (and early) Sunday mornings. 

We look forward to welcoming you back to the Brass Monkeys winter series in November.