News

Nominated Class of the Year at the 2024 Irish Sailing Awards and the youth boat of choice for Irish 49er Tokyo and Paris Olympians Robert Dickson and Seán Waddilove, the 420 has been the choice for many successful sailors in all areas of the sport.

Ewan McMahon, on the Irish Sailing Senior Squad in an ILCA 7, also sailed a 420 for much of his youth career before transitioning to the laser. Internationally, 420 alumni have transitioned to 470s, 49ers, ILCAs and IQ Foils on the Olympic stage with great success. Outside of the Olympics, the 2024-2025 Vendée Globe podium comprised two former 420 sailors; Charlie Dalin and Sébastien Simon, while Sail GP and America’s Cup teams also host ex-420 sailors.

The fun and friendly class can cater to a wide range of sailors from those who want to have fun and race with friends, to those who wish to hone their skills and knowledge to compete at an international standard. As a youth class, the typical age range is from 12/ 13 to 18.

• Age and size: a wide range of sizes are suitable giving the customisation available with tuning. The ideal weight range for competitive racing is between 110 – 130 kgs, however many joining the class from junior level start below this range.
• Racing: The national championships in Cork last year attracted 31 boats. International travel is encouraged, and events abroad can include UK regional events and nationals, French and Spanish nationals and Palma Winter Regatta. Teams who qualify can compete at Junior European and World Championships, and the ISAF Youth World Championships.
• Coaching: National training camps are organised through the year as well as regular local training.

The fundamentals of the 420 arms sailors with the knowledge and skills that benefit all areas of sailing once they age out. From tactical racing and strategy, to weather, tuning, the physics of sailing, teamwork and communication - the 420 provides it all.

The class actively runs coaching sessions throughout the year and has two class boats that can be rented. If you have a sailor who is interested come chat to someone at the next event or reach out to the class association.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS:

• May Pre-Season Training: 17^th + 18^th May, Malahide Yacht Club
• Connaught Championships: 14^th + 15^th June, Galway City Sailing Club
• Dinghyfest: 18^th – 20^th July, Royal Cork Yacht Club
• Junior European Championships: 20^th – 27^th July, Porto, Portugal
• Pre Nationals Coaching: 13^th + 14^th August, Galway Bay Sailing Club
• Nationals: 15^th – 17^th August, Galway Bay Sailing Club
• Leinster Championships: 4^th + 5^th October, Malahide Yacht Club
• October Bank Holiday Training Camp: 25^th – 27^th October, Lough Derg Yacht Club