Kinsale Dragon Gold Cup 2024: Day 1 Highlights and Key Insights
Kinsale Dragon Gold Cup 2024 Day 1
5-13 September 2024
It was a frustrating opening day for the robust fleet of 62 at the Kinsale Dragon Gold Cup, supported by Astra Constructions Service Ltd, as strong winds ultimately hampered racing.
Kinsale Yacht Club’s Race Officer, Con Murphy, briefed competitors with the expectation of sufficient wind, and they ventured out of the River Bandon into the open sea. However, conditions worsened, and by 13:00, steady winds of 25 knots accompanied by heavy gusts prompted the decision to return to shore.
IDA Championship Coordinator Martin Payne explained their decision-making process. “Weather forecasts have consistently underestimated wind strengths this year. We anticipated a maximum of 23 knots, but at one point, gusts reached 30 knots. The sea state was rough, and the Dragons quickly recognized how severe the conditions were. We waited until the scheduled start, but gusts exceeded 25 knots on our boat. The race officer decided that, with a favorable forecast for Monday and the potential for two races, it was best to cancel the day. At a Gold Cup, we must consider the entire fleet, including older boats and younger sailors. Starting the first race under such extreme conditions goes against the spirit of the Gold Cup.”
After a challenging return home, the crews enjoyed the hospitality of Kinsale Yacht Club, where Yanmar’s post-racing drinks and delicious free hot pasta with garlic bread were well-received.
While racing is the primary focus of the Gold Cup, building international relations and camaraderie among Dragon sailors is a close second. Several teams are participating in their first international competition this week, all welcomed warmly by experienced sailors.
One such crew is a youthful team led by Mark Barrett, joined by his children Joseph (18), Emma (16), and their friend Zaiba Mahmood (14), aboard IRL221 Leah. They have benefited from a successful Youth Dragon Sailing Programme established by the late Don Street in collaboration with Glandore Yacht Club. This initiative pairs young sailors with Dragon owners to cultivate a new generation of passionate Dragonists.
Mark Barrett shared their motivation for attending the Gold Cup: “We decided to participate because it’s so close and a fantastic opportunity for travel. Coming from Glandore made it feasible, and with ten boats from our club here, I felt we couldn’t let the fleet down.” His son Joseph added, “We bought the boat five years ago. Today was really about surviving the conditions. It was very windy, so we got out and returned swiftly. We’re looking forward to better weather tomorrow.”
The Race Committee has officially adjusted the schedule for day two, allowing for two races with the first start at 11:30 and revising the race time limit from five to three hours. The regatta will continue until Friday, September 13, with a total of six races planned.
Stay updated on the latest regatta developments by visiting the event website, checking our Facebook, and following us on Instagram. Additional information regarding the regatta can be found at www.kyc.ie.
Ava Thompson, a skilled sailor and marine journalist from Auckland, has developed a deep connection to the ocean that guides her work. With a degree in Marine Journalism from the University of Auckland, Ava is known for her engaging and detailed storytelling. Her writing brings to life the thrill of sailing and the unique maritime culture of New Zealand, earning her recognition in the sailing community. Outside of her journalism, Ava enjoys exploring the rugged coastlines of New Zealand and competing in local regattas, always in search of her next seafaring adventure.