IDRA 14s Return to Howth & Claim Victory at Carlingford Lough YC

05 June 2025
IDRA 14s Return to Howth & Claim Victory at Carlingford Lough YC
 
After many years of absence, the classic IDRA 14 class has made a welcome return to Howth Yacht Club. Once a staple of the local dinghy scene, the class had faded from the club for some time. But with three boats now based at HYC and two racing regularly in the club’s PY fleet throughout the winter, on Thursday evenings, and Sunday mornings the IDRA 14s are firmly back in action in Howth.
 
This past weekend, the resurgent Howth fleet travelled north to Carlingford Lough Yacht Club to compete in a regional event that proved both a challenge and a triumph. Representing Howth Yacht Club were all three HYC-based boats: 14/38 Starfish, sailed by Alan Carr and Orlaith Connolly; 14/119 Crackers, sailed by Orla Doogue and guest crew Hannah Potter (CY&BC); and 14/128 Dr JP Frog, sailed by Ryan Cairns and Jennifer Byrne (DMYC) as guest crew.
 

Forecasts called for 16–20 knots, but conditions quickly escalated after launching, with gusts approaching 30 knots. Sadly for 119, in fourth place at the time, a sudden squall led to a capsize. The boat eventually settled with its mast firmly stuck in Carlingford Lough’s muddy bottom, putting them out of contention for the rest of the day.
 
Meanwhile, 38 led much of the opening race, but in a tight contest with the top three boats regularly trading places, they slipped into third by the finish, with 128 taking line honours. Race two brought even stronger winds, but the HYC pair of 128 and 38 showed great form, with 128 leading from early on and 38 finishing close behind in second.
 
 
Weather had the final say for the IDRA 14 class, as day two of the event was blown out by gale force winds, cutting the weekend’s racing short. With 128 finishing 1st overall and 38 in 2nd, it was a commanding performance from Howth’s returning fleet. The event not only delivered results but also marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the IDRA 14s at HYC.
 
The latest HYC fleet is now looking to grow its numbers. If you want to learn more or get involved with the IDRA 14s, whether curious, keen to crew, or ready to race, go have a chat if you spot them in the yard, or drop a line to [email protected].

 

Report by Orla Doogue 

 
Link to more photos - Credit Finn O'Doherty