Commodore Update - October 2025
Now that the evenings are drawing in, our sailing activities are shifting to weekend racing events such as the Autumn League, Claremont League and the Brass Monkeys Series right through to the end of the year.
Our cruising members are making the most of the autumn sunshine to carry out maintenance and repairs and there are rumours of a joint sailing trip involving both the White Sails and Cruising Groups — more on this soon!
On the harbour front, we have been advised that the EPA is now reviewing the dredging proposal submitted by the Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine. We continue to lobby strongly for a confirmed start date. This is essential so that both our Dredging and Sailing Committees can plan with confidence for the future. The current uncertainty is leaving us — and all harbour users — in a kind of limbo, which is simply not acceptable in this day and age.
Meanwhile, we are in the process of updating our IT systems and membership cards. Some changes to how membership cards are used have been agreed by the General Committee:
Bar and catering staff will now be required to request your membership card when taking orders. For bar service, the card will be requested at the point of sale. For food service, the card will be requested when ordering.
Handheld devices will shortly be introduced so cards can be swiped at the table — a system already in use in many clubs and restaurants, which will improve service for members. With the natural turnover of staff in bar and catering, these changes will assist new staff to recognise members and apply discounts correctly.
May I also remind members that there is a legal requirement to sign in all visitors and guests to the club. I would like to thank all members for their cooperation in these matters, and for your continued support.
The past month has been an exceptionally active and successful one for the club, with excellent participation and results in international events.
Sam O’Byrne was part of the crew of 'Headcase' to claim the Gold medal at the recent J/24 Sailing World Championships in Plymouth. The crew of five made history by becoming the first Irish crew to win the prestigious event having held the lead throughout the week in a 50-boat fleet.
The HYC team at the New York Yacht Club Invitational Cup delivered a creditable 12th overall finish, signing off with a podium finish on the last days races.
Ewan McMahon and Eve McMahon took part in the Sailing Grand Slam Final in Almere, the Netherlands with Eve claiming silver in the ILCA 6 class.
Hopefully will see some of you over the weekend at the social events and well done to the Social Committee for putting together the Sunset Carnival and Karen Rudd for the Taste of China - something for everyone to enjoy!
Kevin Monks
Commodore
