The growing Irish RS Aero fleet closed out its summer season with a blustery Eastern Championships in Howth Yacht Club. Thrills, spills and tactical racing were order of the day. Shifting winds and strong tide for the competitors to think about while trying to keep the boat upright! The strong entry of 18 RS Aeros saw a few 'no shows' due to the fresh autumnal conditions.
Racing was postponed on Saturday due to torrential rain and blustery winds. Sunday provided champagne conditions to complete 4 races. Racing was held in the Sound close to Ireland's Eye where it was important to be aware of the tidal flow.
Local sailor Paul McMahon showed some good late season form, taking 3 wins from 4 races. Peter Barton (2nd) getting caught out of the tide and on the wrong end of a wind shift allowed Paul to take the final race and title. Irish Champion Daragh Sheridan finished in 3rd, one point behind Peter, with a seriously consistent score-line never outside the top 3. Visiting Dublin Bay and Strangford sailors Noel Butler and Hammy Baker rounded out the top 5. With the top 3 all in RS Aero 7s Noel claimed the 1st RS Aero 6 accolade. First Master from Greystones in his RS Aero 6 rig was Roy Van Maanen and new RS Aero owner Abby Kinsella took first Youth and Lady.
Thanks to all involved in running the event, INSS providing spares, support and prizes, Rooster Sailing providing plenty of goodies and Howth Yacht Club for providing top class hospitality.
With the change of season it is now 'Frostbite' time in Ireland with good RS Aero fleets within the frostbite series at each of Howth, Dun Laoghaire and Ballyholme in the north.
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