Commodore Update - June 2025
A Strong Start to the Season at Howth Yacht Club
The sailing season has set off with tremendous success, particularly on the international stage, where our sailors continue to make history and fly the flag for Howth Yacht Club.
At the ILCA Senior World Championships in Qingdao, China, our Olympian Eve McMahon made history by becoming the first Irish female sailor to win a medal at this prestigious event, securing bronze. We were also proudly represented by Sienna Wright, competing in her first Senior World Championship, and by Evan McMahon, who put in a strong performance in the men’s event.
Meanwhile, on the European scene, Daragh Sheridan claimed the title of European Masters Champion in the Aero 6 class at Lake Garda, Torbole. He was joined by fellow club members John Phelan and Emmet Dalton, who also competed in the event, showcasing the strength and depth of talent within our club.
Congratulations to all our competitors who continue to represent Howth Yacht Club and Ireland with distinction both at home and abroad. We are immensely proud of your achievements!
Closer to home, it’s been wonderful to see our Junior Sailors out on the water, learning and enjoying the sport of sailing — a lifelong skill that builds confidence, resilience, and joy. Our sincere thanks to Junior Organiser Karena Knaggs for her dedication and enthusiasm in coordinating our junior programmes.
We’re also proud to announce a significant and forward-thinking initiative: the appointment of Sarah Robertson as our Biodiversity Officer — the first such role, to our knowledge, in any yacht club in Ireland. Sarah’s passion and expertise will help us ensure that our activities support the protection of our environment, both on land and sea. We look forward to working with her as we build a more sustainable future for the club and our community.
Our cruising sailors have been equally active, with several venturing to the warm waters of the Ionian Sea to experience Blue Water sailing in a more temperate climate — a welcome adventure and a testament to the diversity of sailing opportunities our members enjoy.
Thank you to everyone who took part in the recent Darkness into Light. Together we sailed, rowed and walked in solidarity for Pieta House and raised €9,065. Big shout out to Howth Adventures, Irelands Eye Ferries, Howth Coast Guard, Crew Class, Howth RNLI, the Harbour Master, Eoin Kernan and the team at HYC. Special mention to Susan and Sarah for coordinating and motivating us all.
And now, it’s nearly that time again — Lambay Race Weekend is here! The Sailing Committee has been working tirelessly to organise this flagship event, which takes place over the weekend. With plenty of activity planned on and off the water, this promises to be a spectacular two-day celebration of sailing, camaraderie, and club spirit. I encourage all members to come down, enjoy the hospitality, and show your support.
To all visiting yachts and crew, we extend a warm welcome and wish everyone safe sailing, fair winds, and a fantastic weekend of racing and fun at Howth Yacht Club.
Now all that remains is for Zeus, the God of weather, to smile upon us and bless the event with favourable conditions!