Today (Sun) Heaven was being afloat on Cork Harbour for the annual Irish Examiner sponsored Round the Island Race. How long is it since we have enjoyed such conditions. The wind was light but the sun blazed and there was a carnival like atmosphere on the water. It was a day for families sailing together or for the youngsters sailing their dinghies and even for the many dogs spotted with their smart lifejackets aboard the boats.
An excellent fleet arrived at the start lines and made a colourful sight as they manoeuvered whilst waiting for the off signal. During racing there was quite a lot of unnecessary speed witnessed cutting through the fleet by a couple of very large flybridge cruisers. Bit unfair really but probably or hopefully lack of thought. 
The two leading boats in the cruisers, John Downing’s Samba and Colman Garvey and Martin Darrerr’s True Penance had a ding dong battle from start to finish but unfortunately as we do not have results available at time of writing due to a glitch the suspense will have to remain until they are available.
The après sailing atmosphere ashore after racing was very enjoyable. The patio dining area was filled to capacity and what a boon to the club this is especially on such a beautiful day. Conviviality was everywhere in the air and all this was enhanced by the sounds coming from tropical band “Bang Sambra” who must have really felt at home with the weather!
Thanks to Rear Admiral Dr. Larrie Martin the principal organiser of the event who also acted as the good shepherd to the young sailors racing round the island.
Our report would not be complete without offering our thanks for the generous sponsorship from the Irish Examiner who continue their support each year for this delightful event.
Junior Results:
420 Class Louise and Laura MacCarthy
Oppie Class and youngest competitor James McCann
RSFeva Class and overall Junior event winners Brendan Lyden and Marc Cudmore
Images available here
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