The build-up to the 2026 GP14 World Championship steps up this weekend with the Irish National Championship at Carrickfergus Sailing Club, the final competitive test before the world's best crews assemble across Belfast Lough.
Many of the Irish and international entries expected to contest the World Championship at the Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club from 8-14 August are expected to race at Carrickfergus first. The event offers crews a final opportunity to fine-tune boats, teamwork and tactics before the main championship begins.
After the Irish Championship, the fleet will relocate across Belfast Lough to the Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club, where preparations for one of the largest GP14 World Championships in recent years are entering their final stages.
Volunteers have spent weeks preparing the venue, clearing boat parks, refreshing facilities and completing the infrastructure needed to welcome competitors from Ireland, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, South Africa, Pakistan and France.
This year's championship will introduce several innovations. Robotic race marks will be used on the race course, while every competing boat will carry a GPS tracker, allowing racing to be followed live online. Action afloat will also be streamed to screens around the yacht club for spectators ashore.
Event Director Gerry Reid said the organisers were looking forward to welcoming competitors from around the world.
"We are really excited and looking forward to welcoming all the competitors from the world of sailing. The racing will be highly competitive, and the social afterwards each day should be full on!"
Royal North Commodore Lindsay Nolan praised the efforts of the club's volunteers.
"Our dedicated volunteers have worked tirelessly to deliver an exceptional GP14 World Championships, and Royal North looks forward to welcoming competitors and their families from across the globe!"
The World Championship racing begins on Sunday 9 August on Belfast Lough, with racing taking place between the Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club and Grey Point.
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