Commodore Update - September 2025

As summer draws to a close, it’s been fantastic to see such vibrant activity across all areas of the Club. Whether on the water or ashore, HYC has been buzzing!

Our junior sailors, cruisers, racers, visitors, and those simply enjoying a quiet sail have all contributed to a lively season afloat. Onshore, activities like rowing, pilates, yoga, and mahjong have kept the social and fitness calendars full. Another mention must go to our Gardening Team, whose hard work continues to enhance the Club grounds — their efforts truly speak for themselves.

It’s not all been leisure — we’ve also made some solid progress on Club projects and improvements. A new dinghy racking system was recently installed by a fantastic members’ work party, expertly led (and driven!) by our Marina Chairman, Tom McMahon. The day saw teamwork, elbow grease… and even the Commodore wielding a sweeping brush and wheelbarrow! It was a rewarding and fun experience, and we hope to tackle more projects in this collaborative spirit in the future — a great way to get involved and meet fellow members.

Our efforts to make progress on plans for dredging continue. Unfortunately, as of August 18th, Minister Timmy Dooley has advised us that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has not included the Howth Harbour dredging on their 2025 priority list. However, Minister Dooley has committed to making representations to both Minister Darragh O’Brien and the EPA in hopes of revisiting this decision. At this stage, waiting for progress is starting to feel like “Waiting for Godot”.

Big changes are underway in catering, with a variety of new menus being trialled. We’ve introduced a QR code feedback option on tables — please use it to share your thoughts. Your input, both positive and constructive, is invaluable to helping our catering team deliver the best experience possible. Booking on ResDiary is also a great help to the team for planning and scheduling.

The reinstallation of the Pergola which was damaged in the storm is scheduled to begin on 1st September. The small crane is now back in operation on the marina after a new motor was installed — thanks to all involved for getting this essential piece of equipment back online.

Evening racing winds down shortly after a very successful summer season. Looking ahead, the Squib Class Eastern Championships will take place from 6th–7th September. Best of luck to all competitors — we’re looking forward to a great event, and to the Autumn Leagues kicking off the following Saturday.

Our cruising members have had a season full of memorable voyages both near and far, as individuals and as a group. We look forward to hearing more of their stories over the winter months — perhaps with a glass in hand!

And don't forget to mark your calendars and book for the last weekend of September which is shaping up to be a big one at HYC! On Friday 26th September we have the Summer Sunset Carnival Banquet. Expect live music, great food, fun, and a raffle & auction in aid of Aoibheann’s Pink Tie, a children's cancer charity.

That is followed on Saturday 27th September with A Taste of China to celebrate 10 years of Mahjong at HYC. Karen Rudd and her group have planned a stunning evening featuring a Lion/Dragon dance performance, Chinese-inspired dinner, and music. Proceeds from this event will go to the RNLI.

Two fantastic nights, two great causes — we encourage all members to come out and support these events. There’s something for everyone! Tickets are available via the HYC App or through the Club office.

Finally, well done to all involved in pulling together our inaugural Women at the Helm event with a fantastic entry list and a wonderful evening of entertainment and celebration!

See you around the Club.

Kevin Monks

Commodore