Historic Gathering as 420s and Fireballs Unite at Killaloe Sailing Club
Killaloe Sailing Club is about to witness a sailing spectacle this weekend as it plays host to an inaugural joint event: the Fireball Munster Championship and International 420 Leinster Championships 2023. For the first time ever, these two fleets will come together on the serene waters of lower Lough Derg, promising an exciting and colourful display of sailing.
Over 30 double-handed performance dinghies, comprising both Fireballs and International 420s, are expected to grace the Lough on the July 22 and 23.
Jim Ryan, the Commodore of Killaloe Sailing Club, emphasized the significance of this occasion saying “We’re excited to witness the Fireball and 420 fleets together on the same waters and warmly welcome sailors to this scenic part of Co Clare for a great weekend of sailing. Plenty of space for camping and motor homes which makes Killaloe sailing club a low cost venue for regattas. Wishing everyone all the best of luck on the water.”
On behalf of the Fireball Class Association, chairman Neil Cramer warmly welcomed the joint hosting event by Killaloe SC in it’s new club premises on Lough Derg. “This is a perfect match of classes which represents a win-win for all involved. For clubs it makes perfect sense to host compatible classes together for logistical and economic reasons and is the way forward for sustainable regattas in Ireland. Fireballers are delighted once again to visit Killaloe SC for their penultimate regional event of the year and of particular interest this weekend is the large crop of younger sailors competing in Fireballs.”
The 420 class has been a stepping stone for many young sailors, with several transitioning to compete in the Fireball category during their college years and beyond. Notably, Cara McDowell, Daniel Thompson, Henry Thompson and Hugo Mika, all 420 class coaches, will be participating in the Fireball races this weekend, a testament to the symbiotic relationship between the two classes.
Martina Whyte, the President of the Irish 420 Association, expressed her gratitude towards Killaloe Sailing Club and the Race Officer Liam Maloney (LDYC) for hosting this event. She shared her excitement, looking forward to thrilling tactical racing and the opportunity to renew sailing acquaintances with their Fireball counterparts. Alongside the sailors familiar with the Shannon waters from Lough Ree Yacht Club, a fleet of sailors from 420 strongholds in Galway, Spiddal, Malahide, Kinsale, and Waterford are expected to compete. This event also serves as a warm-up for the upcoming 420 and Fireball National Championships, again to be jointly hosted in Waterford Harbour, scheduled for August.
The regatta will kick off on Saturday, July 22, with the first gun firing just after noon. Commodore Jim Ryan extended a warm invitation to all sailing enthusiasts and spectators to come and watch the racing.
Results will be available on the Killaloe Sailing Club’s website at killaloesailingclub.com. This promises to be an unforgettable weekend of sailing excellence and camaraderie, celebrating two passionate sailing communities on the captivating waters of Lough Derg.
