The Sovereign’s cup got off to an auspicious start at Kinsale to-day with 138 boats competing many of which were from the Royal Cork Yacht Club.   Conditions could be described as sublimely perfect.  There was a breeze of about 12 to 15 knots, brilliant sunshine, sparkling on blue seas sprinkled with white caps, and with a sea state that is unique to Kinsale.

Classes Zero and One sailed a coastal course while Class Two had a windward/leeward course and the Quarter Ton Class had their own course under the guidance of Donal McClement. The White Sail Fleet sailed a round the cans course.  Racing continues until Saturday with the forecast for more of the same conditions.

More images Days one and two on the Bateman Gallery