The Brass Monkey Spring Series, sponsored by Tadg Riordan Motors, drew to a close in fine style, delivering a superb day’s sailing to round off the programme. Sunshine, a steady breeze and a full complement of boats on the start line made for a fitting finale. The start itself was largely well-behaved, save for a little animated discussion over the line as one of the bigger boats worked to keep clear of a smaller rival — all part of the theatre of competitive racing.

 

 

The day was not without drama. Timballoo experienced a man overboard incident, swiftly and efficiently handled by Flexit, who recovered the swimmer without fuss. Thankfully all ended well, with the crew member later seen enjoying the post-race lunch — proof, if ever it were needed, of seamanship and good spirits combined.

 

In Fleet 1, Helms Deep took line honours, with our Malahide neighbours Battling J finishing second and Chinook securing third place on the day.

 

Fleet 2 saw Pretty Polly claim victory, followed by Leeuwin in second and Mary Ellen in third.

 

Overall results for the series were as follows:

 

Fleet 1

1st – Paul Harrison, Helms Deep

2nd – Brian Skehan, Chinook

3rd – Battling J (Malahide)

 

Pretty Polly Crew

 

Fleet 2

1st – Chris Horrigan, Pretty Polly (Skerries)

2nd – Terry McCoy (Skerries)

3rd – Mary Ellen

 

Following racing, members gathered for the customary prizegiving lunch. We were delighted to welcome Timmy, Jill and young Tim Riordan from our sponsors Tadg Riordan Motors, accompanied by Bernadette, along with Commodore Kevin Monks. Unfortunately, prize sponsor John Aunger was unable to attend on the day.

 

The Commodore addressed attendees, acknowledging both the success of the series and the uncertainty facing not only the Brass Monkeys but the wider club programme, given the current lack of clarity around harbour and marina dredging. Timmy O’Riordan expressed his pleasure at being back in Howth Yacht Club and extended his best wishes for the club’s continued success. He then presented the club prizes, with Pretty Polly also receiving the Peter Huntley Memorial Trophy for achieving the greatest winning margin between first and second place across the fleet. The Brass Monkey Restaurant prizes were presented by the Commodore.

 

The series itself featured more than its fair share of memorable moments. Arcturus broke her boom during Race 4 yet gamely completed the following two races under headsail alone — a sporting effort that may well have cost a podium finish. In true Brass Monkey spirit, the organisers thoughtfully offered a length of wood and some cord for emergency repairs.

 

Shenanigans “misplaced” her propeller during the series, and a partial replacement was duly sourced — proof that ingenuity is alive and well on the waterfront.

 

Stephen Mullaney

 

Race 2, sailed in extremely light airs, provided further entertainment when the committee boat endured a nervous moment as a sizeable Pretty Polly appeared intent on close inspection, ultimately choosing to cross the line sideways rather than bow first. It was gently suggested that Stephen Mullaney might consider racing with L-plates next season.

 

Sincere thanks go to the many volunteers who make this series possible: Gordon Knaggs, Mike Head, Derek Bothwell, Paddy Judge, Scorie Walls, Michael Sterling, Pat MacCaughy, David Lovegrove, Rupert Jeffrey, Robert Kennedy and many others. Appreciation also to Emma and Lorraine in the marina office and Ian in the main office for their invaluable support.

 

Timmy Riordan presenting to Karolina Kernan

 

Finally, a special word of thanks to our generous sponsors, Tadg Riordan Motors as series sponsor, and prize sponsor The Brass Monkey Restaurant. Without their continued backing, the series would be greatly diminished. If you are in the market for a new car — or simply planning a meal out — please remember to support those who support the club.

 

A wonderful series, full of competition, camaraderie and characteristic Brass Monkey good humour.

 

Full Results

Race Report Pat Connolly

Photo Gallery Karoline Kernan

Photo Gallery Paul Harrison