Last Friday, 29th August 2025, Howth Yacht Club proudly hosted its inaugural Women at the Helm event, a celebration of women’s leadership and participation in sailing.

This landmark occasion welcomed sailors of all abilities - first-time helms and seasoned competitors alike - to take charge across a variety of classes, including J80s, J24s, Puppeteers, Howth 17s, Squibs, Melges 15s, and IDRA14s for 3 races back to back.

With an incredible 120 women and 38 boats registered, the excitement on and off the water was unmistakable. The event not only delivered competitive, close-fought racing but also fostered a strong sense of community, culminating in HYC’s signature après-sail social gathering ashore. Wind was daunting as the boats set sail from the harbour but once the squall passed through beautiful sunshine followed and a steady wind of 12-15 knots.

Adding to the excitement, Sarah McInerney, renowned RTÉ broadcaster, joined us on the water and at the après-sail festivities helping to shine a spotlight on women’s achievements in sailing and beyond.

A newly commissioned Baltic Gold Trophy, generously donated by Rima Macken, was awarded to celebrate outstanding achievement. Ten years ago, Rima took the helm of Eileen, a 1908 Howth 17. She had no sailing experience but determination, curiosity, and a deep love for the sea helped her develop into a confident sailor and helm. Named the Baltic Gold Trophy by Rima, who is Lithuanian, it represents strength, heritage, and endurance.

The inaugural Women at the Helm was proudly supported by many brands including Tots & Co Childcare, Irish Sailing, WaterWipes, Image Skincare, and Hermans Hair Salons, Daha Wellness, Mitchum, Bondi Sands, Batiste, Celtic Candles, Remarkable Cocktails and The Wright Group. Their generous support underlines the importance of inclusivity and empowerment in sport, ensuring this first edition of Women at the Helm at HYC made a strong and lasting impact.

The event became one of the largest and most anticipated club events of the year, underlining the club’s commitment to inclusivity and the advancement of women in the sport. Plans are already in motion to expand the event even further in 2026.

Results

1St J24 - Ciara McMahon

1st  J80 - Diana Kissane

1st Melges- Laura Fitzpatrick

1st IDRA 14 - Orla Doogue

1st Squib - Jill Sommerville

1st Howth 17 Stephanie Ennis

1st Puppeteer - Susan Knowles 

Overall HYC WATH for 2025 was Jill Somerville in a squib with 3 first places just pipping Diana Kissane from the J80 fleet. 

Congratulations to everyone who took part, and thank you to all the volunteers, sponsors, and supporters who made this unforgettable evening possible. Women at the Helm is here to stay steering a bold new course for sailing at Howth Yacht Club! 

Videos Before & After and the Racing

Photo Gallery 

Videos & Photography credit by Karolina Kernan