Racing
Domestic Racing
The ISA is committed to building better links
between clubs and classes so that growing
numbers of participants can realise their full
potential and maximise their enjoyment of the
sport. Research indicates that attendance in
club dinghy racing over the last five years in
many clubs has declined, whilst club cruiser
racing generally is going from strength to
strength. Attendance at class events generally
has remained fairly static although there has
been a significant turnover of personnel and
cross over between the classes. The ISA will
work with the Clubs and Classes during the
next five years to encourage better links and increased participation, higher standards and enjoyment for all club and lass competition. Although cruiser racing has enjoyed prosperity in recent years there are some issues particularly around communication and handicapping that will need to be addressed if progress is to be maintained.
ISA Recommendations on Support Boats for events can be found here
Handicap and Fleet Racing
Participation in handicap and fleet racing in cruisers has increased significantly in recent years, and may be a factor in the club dinghy racing trends. The ISA will monitor these trends carefully and respond accordingly.
Domestic and International Events
Ireland has hosted a number of European and World championships in recent years providing the opportunity for more Irish sailors to experience international competition, whilst at the same time promoting Irish sailing abroad.
There are significant economic and social benefits in hosting such events and the ISA will work in close co-operation with the Irish Sports Council and Fáilte Ireland in continuing to bring appropriate events to Ireland.
Increasing the numbers participating in domestic competition will depend on a co-ordinated programme of well-organised events. The Branches have played a significant role in coordinating local calendars and the ISA will continue to encourage co-operation between clubs locally and classes to maximize participation.
High Performance Sailing
The ISA has undertaken a great deal of work over the past 5 years to establish the framework and structures for competitive sailing from entry level to Olympic sailing. This work has been recognised by the Irish Sports Council and significant additional investment has been allocated by the Irish Sports Council specifically to support this work.
The ISA has produced a detailed High Performance Pathway in conjunction with the Irish Sports Council in order to provide the Irish team with a real chance of performing and winning in Olympic games. There is an urgent need to build greater awareness of this Pathway, and the opportunities to progress among all those interested in competitive sailing.
International Racing
In addition to the commitment to support the High Performance Pathway, the ISA will encourage participation and top class performance at international level.