IODAI Sprint Series and the Irish Sailing Youth Nationals 2024
As sailors around Ireland gear up for another exhilarating year on the water, anticipation builds for a series that promises to test the skills and mettle of the nation's young sailing talents. The Irish Optimist Dinghy Association (IODAI) proudly presents the much-anticipated Sprint Series, a highlight of the 2024 sailing calendar tailored to bring sailors together over the winter months to support their training and for those Gold and Silver fleet sailors aiming to make waves at the IS Youth Nationals in April.
The IODAI Sprint Series 2024 invites sailors to two prestigious race days at the National Yacht Club on 24th February and Lough Derg Yacht Club on 23rd March. The first leg of the series, due to take place in January at Royal Cork Yacht Club was unfortunately cancelled due to excess winds.
The series is designed to be accessible to sailors from every part of Ireland, featuring a convenient later start and a schedule of four races each day.
This setup gives young sailors ample time to sharpen their skills ahead of the season officially kicking off. But the Sprint Series is more than just races; it's a chance to build lasting friendships and connect with the wider sailing community. As sailors compete and share experiences, they'll be part of a supportive network that encourages everyone to strive for their personal best.
Looking ahead, the series serves as a vital preparation ground for the Irish Sailing Youth Nationals, taking place at the Royal Cork Yacht Club at the end of April. Success here is key for sailors aiming to represent Ireland internationally, as the nationals are a selection event for the teams heading to competitions in Italy and France this summer. These international events are a significant undertaking for the Optimist class with some sailors away from their families, often for the first time, for up to ten days but the benefit to their sailing and sense of achievement is immense. They offer young sailors the chance to don the Irish colours and represent their country on a global stage, grow in confidence and make friends from around the world.
For anyone eager to learn more about the IODAI Sprint Series 2024, or to get insights from the recent IODAI webinar on the Youth Nationals and IODAI teams, check out www.iodai.com.