After a somewhat disappointing turnout at last year's National Championships in Foynes, where Darragh McCormack completed his four in a row in his stunning boat Innocence, the Mermaid Class is bracing itself for a resurgence of competitive sailing in Skerries this year.
The National Championship will be held from 3-6th August at Skerries Sailing Club.
With past champions' return and new contenders' emergence, the stage is set for a memorable showdown on the water. Additionally, the current committee is spearheading initiatives to further invigorate the class, particularly among its younger members.
Mermaid racing in Foynes on the Shannon Estuary
Strong Field
The anticipated return of several former champions, including Derek Joyce, Mark Boylan, Jim Carthy, Sam Shiels, Frankie Browne Snr, and Paddy Dillon, is sure to raise the level of competition.
Mermaid 189 Azeezy
However, there will be an absence of Roger Bannon and Johnathan O'Rourke, both esteemed former champions. While O'Rourke's boat, Tiller Girl, is still undergoing repairs from a serious road accident, Bannon has decided to retire from active Mermaid sailing due to back surgeries. Nevertheless, Bannon's boat, Endeavour, will be sailed by Alan Ruigrok, a talented young sailor from Rush who has returned from Dubai to take up the challenge.
The Dublin Bay Mermaid Class National Championship trophy
Boat Choices
Some notable sailors have opted for exciting boat choices in the quest for victory. Derek Joyce, renowned for his restoration projects, has undertaken the monumental task of reviving Brennan-built boats once again. The question remains whether he will sail his latest project, Maid Marion 125, or stick to his proven champion, Zuleika, which has secured him five championships. Similarly, Sam Shiels has restored a former multiple winner, Helen no 76, leading to speculation about whether he will race his championship-winning Azeezy or let Helen re-enter.
Third overall in the Dublin Bay Mermaid class of the Volvo Dun Laoghaire Regatta were Dermot O'Neill's Aideen (21), with crew John and Andrew Redmond racing against Royal Irish's Jill (134) sailed by Paul Smith, Patrick Mangan and Ailbhe Smith Photo: Michael Chester
Leadership
The revival of the Mermaid Class owes much to the enthusiasm and dedication of the vibrant young committee led by President Paul Browne. Browne himself recently triumphed at the Volvo Dun Laoghaire Regatta in Cara 2, showcasing his skill in challenging conditions. Alongside him, steadfast individuals like Paul Smith and Pat Mangan from Dun Laoghaire, Darach Dinneen from Skerries, Enda Weldon from Rush, and the McCormack clan from Foynes will contribute to the competitive environment and lively camaraderie that define the Mermaid Class.
Mermaid 131 at speed in big breeze
Looking Ahead
Exciting times lie ahead for the Mermaid Class, with the current committee planning significant initiatives and changes starting in 2024. These efforts aim to build upon the existing momentum within the class, especially among its younger members. With a vision for growth and inclusivity, the committee intends to ensure that the Mermaid Class remains a vibrant and dynamic sailing community for years to come.
