Five members of HYC’s K25 team; Cian Kelly, Ciara McMahon, Aoibhín Farrelly, Fiachra Farrelly and Dylan Cassidy were in action at the J24 Northern Championship in Carlingford over the weekend, continuing a strong season on the Irish J24 circuit.

The event attracted 11 boats and, despite challenging conditions, four races were successfully completed on Saturday. Light and variable winds tested both competitors and race management throughout the day, while the notoriously tricky waters of Carlingford produced close and shifty racing. Sunday's weather proved even more difficult, with insufficient wind preventing further racing despite an attempt to get a race underway.

The HYC crew delivered an excellent performance, winning the K25 division and finishing seventh overall in the fleet. Across the four races, they showed impressive boat speed and slick manoeuvres, securing a season-best race result of fourth place. 

Speaking afterwards, the Dylan described the racing as highly competitive and felt they were perhaps a little short-changed on the points after several close battles throughout the championship. Nevertheless, they were delighted with their progress and the confidence gained from competing at the front of the fleet.

The team were particularly appreciative of the warm welcome they received in Carlingford, with Fiachra and Ciara noting how helpful and friendly the rest of the fleet were throughout the weekend. They also extended their thanks to the sailing committee and race management team for delivering a championship in difficult conditions. Most importantly, however, they reported that the championship dinner was excellent.

The team will head to the J24 National Championships in Foynes on September 4–6, where the team will be looking to build on last year’s silver-medal finish and challenge for gold. Keep an eye on HYC channels for details of an upcoming fundraising initiative to support the campaign. Kilcullen will be back on the water for HYC’s Autumn League, which gets underway on September 12. Entry is now open, and the series will provide another opportunity for Cian, Ciara, Aoibhín, Fiachra, Archie and Dylan to sharpen their skills against strong local competition