21 420 racing dinghies have arrived at Kinsale Yacht Club for their annual February Mid-Term coaching camp.

This record number has doubled in number since it was last held at Schull in 2019. Boats have travelled from Wexford Harbour, Waterford Harbour, Malahide, Howth, Galway, Athlone, Sligo and Blessington to attend the event in what is normally a fun-filled and highly productive week of training.

To put them through their paces on (and off) the water, the Association says it is lucky enough to have some of the best coaches around. David Harte, Graeme Grant, Cara McDowell and local, Micheal O’Suilleabhain will push the youth sailors to get the most out of the week.

"We are hoping the weather gods will be good to us and that all of the fleet can make it out each day. It is hoped that as many as possible will attend the Youth Sailing Nationals, which takes place between the 21st-24th April at Ballyholme Yacht Club. The Association currently has 10 entries and are pushing to increase this number", Irish 420 Association Chairman, Garrett Leech told Afloat.

"There has been a resurgence in recent times of the beloved 420 in youth sailing. It fills a very important niche to keep young kids who have left Optimist, racing. The Laser/ILCA is not for all young sailors who need company and nor is the flighty 29er, the 420 is keeping kids sailing who might otherwise through the towel in if they have not found something that keeps them engaged with sailing and particularly, racing", Leech said.

With this growth comes its own issues, there are not enough starter boats to satisfy the influx of new entries but this issue is being addressed. “We have a fair idea there are boats in storage around the country, we just need to get to & persuade people to sell them on,” says Leech.

The Association is asking that if you have a boat that is not been used, please make contact with us please email: [email protected]