The Irish 420 Dinghy Class Association announces the pairings to represent Ireland at the 2024 Open International 420 European Championships.
Unlike some other youth boats, the 420 Worlds and Junior Europeans are closed events due to the sheer numbers of boats that would enter from several nations around the world. This means that sailors need to be selected to represent Ireland at these events. When a world championship is held in the southern hemisphere, as in Brazil in January 2024, a complementary Open Championship is held in the northern hemisphere. Open events do not have an age limit but the same qualification criteria apply.
Competing at the recent Waterman Kelly Irish Sailing Youth Nationals 2024, hosted at the Royal Cork Yacht Club, was the primary basis for team selection. With four places on the 2024 International 420 team on offer, competition was intense for the opportunity to represent Ireland at the summer 420 International European events.
The crews selected were as follows:-
- Max Sweetman and Fionn Lynch Clubs: Wexford Harbour Boat and Tennis Club / Waterford Harbour Sailing Club
- Cora McNaughton and Sean Cronin Clubs: Blessington Sailing Club / Malahide Yacht Club
- Caoimhe Corkery and Lucy Moynan Club: Kinsale Yacht Club
- Isha Duggan and Tommy Hiras: Club: Royal Cork Yacht Club
The 2024 Open International 420 European Championship will take place in the charming coastal town of Portorož, Slovenia this July. With six days of racing, the Ireland team will have a chance to compete against top double-handed sailors from around the world.
Behind every successful team stands a dedicated coaching staff which will be led by seasoned sailor Graeme Grant and experienced 420 campaigner Cara McDowell. Their aim is to help the team further master the nuances of their high-performance two-person dinghies. From Wexford to Kinsale, six clubs across the country are represented, showing the growing interest in the International 420 being a recognition that it is well suited for Irish conditions.
