Howth Yacht Club will be proudly represented as Gazelle in one of the world’s most spectacular offshore races this week. Team HYC lines up for the 2025 AEGEAN 600, a fast-emerging classic in the international offshore calendar. The Aegean 600—organised by the Hellenic Offshore Racing Club—has rapidly gained recognition for its stunning and technically demanding 605-nautical-mile course through the heart of the Greek archipelago.

Starting and finishing in Cape Sounio beneath the Temple of Poseidon, the race weaves its way past 13 iconic islands, including Mykonos, Kos, Santorini, and Milos. With its mix of Meltemi winds, tactical headlands, and mythic scenery, it has become known as one of the Mediterranean’s true offshore tests—a modern counterpart to the Rolex Fastnet or Middle Sea Race. Racing under the banner Gazelle – Team HYC, the Irish-flagged Xp44 will be skippered by Darren Wright, with Kieran Jameson as co-skipper and Rick DeNeve on navigation.

The full team brings together a wealth of offshore experience and Howth sailing talent:

• Lara Jameson
• Frank Dillion
• Michael Wright
• Brian Heron
• Ronan Galligan
• Colm Bermingham
• Mark Bolger
• Grace Murray

This marks the latest offshore campaign for several of the sailors, many of whom have represented Howth Yacht Club with distinction in other international events. In addition, David Cotter, another HYC stalwart, will be racing aboard Searcher, a boat entered by Peter and Nicky Smyth of the Royal Irish Yacht Club. Both Smyths have longstanding ties with Howth Yacht Club, and their involvement further strengthens the strong Irish contingent in this prestigious race.

With growing participation from world-class crews and boats from over 25 nations, the Aegean 600 is staking its claim as one of offshore sailing’s most captivating challenges. All eyes will be on the tracker as Gazelle – Team HYC takes on the Meltemi and the magic of the Aegean.

Fair winds to all competitors – and especially to those flying the HYC burgee on the high seas of Homers wine-dark sea.